Tonight marks President Barack Obama's first state dinner. It will honor Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and as noted earlier, New York's Marcus Samuelsson scored the big honor of being the guest chef, and he worked in conjunction with White House executive chef Cristeta Comerford on the dinner. The entire theme will showcase a garden theme, from the decor to Samuelsson's largely-vegetarian menu (including herbs and lettuces from the White House garden).
The Dinner Menu and Wine Pairings:
Potato and Eggplant SaladSo many more details can be had in the extensive dinner preview, including fun facts about the performers (Jennifer Hudson), the historic china being used, the place settings, and all the past state dinners at the White House that honored India.
White House Arugula
With Onion Seed Vinaigrette
2008 Sauvignon Blanc, Modus Operandi, Napa Valley, California
?
Red Lentil Soup with Fresh Cheese
2006 Riesling, Brooks “Ara”, Wilamette Valley, Oregon
?
Roasted Potato Dumplings
With Tomato Chutney
Chick Peas and Okra
or
Green Curry Prawns
Caramelized Salsify
With Smoked Collard Greens
and
Coconut Aged Basmati
2007 Granache, Beckmen Vineyards, Santa Ynez, California
?
Pumpkin Pie Tart
Pear Tatin
Whipped Cream and Caramel Sauce
Sparkling Chardonnay, Thibaut Janisson Brut, Monticello, Virginia
?
Petits Fours and Coffee
Cashew Brittle
Pecan Pralines
Passion Fruit and Vanilla Gelees
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit
· Complete Seven-Page State Dinner Program [.pdf]
· Marcus Samuelsson Invited to Cook at White House [Eater National]