Delicate Beginning
The state dinner commenced with a refreshing and light introduction designed to awaken the palate. Guests were presented with a Garden Vegetable Velouté,
a smooth and flavorful soup showcasing the vibrant tastes of spring. Accompanying this was a delicate Hearts of Palm salad, offering a crisp contrast. To add layers of texture and aroma, toasted shallots were sprinkled atop, while micro mint provided a final flourish of freshness. This opening course set a tone of elegance and a clear celebration of the season's bounty, preparing diners for the culinary journey ahead.
Handcrafted Pasta
Following the initial offering, the second course maintained the focus on seasonal ingredients with a beautifully crafted Spring Herbed Ravioli. Each parcel was generously filled with a creamy ricotta cheese and complemented by the deep, earthy notes of morel mushrooms. What made this dish particularly special was the inclusion of herbs harvested directly from the White House Kitchen Garden, adding an authentic touch of the estate. A subtle parmesan emulsion was used to bind the elements together, ensuring that the natural, fresh flavours of the ravioli and its filling remained the star of the plate without being overshadowed.
Classic Main
The centerpiece of the meal was a sophisticated rendition of the classic Dover Sole Meuniere. The fish was expertly prepared, bathed in a rich brown butter sauce that lent a nutty depth. This iconic dish was thoughtfully paired with traditional accompaniments, including a creamy potato pave, which offered a delightful texture, and vibrant spring ramps and snow peas, adding a touch of freshness and colour. A drizzle of bright parsley oil provided a final flourish, lending a herbaceous lift and visual appeal to the plate, beautifully blending European culinary tradition with the best of American seasonal produce.
Sweet Finale
The dessert provided a memorable and artful conclusion to the banquet. A stunning beehive-shaped flourless chocolate gateau took pride of place, showcasing both creativity and indulgence. This rich confection was layered with a smooth Vanilla Bean Crémeux and a delicate Almond Joconde, creating a symphony of textures and complex flavours. To complement the gateau, a refreshing Crème Fraîche Ice Cream was served alongside, and a touch of sweetness was added with White House Honey. The entire dessert was a subtle nod to themes of nature and artisanal craftsmanship, rounding off the meal with elegance and flair.
American Wines
The beverage selection for the evening was deliberately chosen to highlight the quality and diversity of American winemaking. A 2024 Hopkins Riesling 'Heritage' offered a crisp and aromatic start, preparing the palate for subsequent courses. For the main, a smooth 2022 Penner-Ash Pinot Noir from the renowned Willamette Valley was featured, known for its nuanced fruit notes. Finally, a rich 2022 Newton 'Unfiltered' Chardonnay provided a fuller-bodied accompaniment. These selections were not only chosen to complement the meticulously planned menu but also to serve as a proud showcase of the United States' thriving viticulture industry.
