Harry S. Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, was known for his straightforward, no-nonsense leadership style that carried the country through the end of World War II and into the post-war era.
His personality also shone through in his culinary preferences, favoring hearty, simple meals that reflected his Midwestern roots. Among his favorite dishes was a well-done New York strip steak with potatoes, a classic American meal that was both comforting and satisfying.
In this blog post, we’ll explore Truman’s life, his rise to the presidency, his legacy, and his love for this humble yet hearty meal, followed by a step-by-step recipe for recreating it in your own kitchen.
Harry Truman’s Upbringing: From Small-Town Roots to Global Leadership
Harry Truman was born on May 8, 1884, in Lamar, Missouri, and raised in Independence, Missouri, a small Midwestern town where life revolved around hard work and simple pleasures.
The son of a farmer and livestock trader, Truman grew up in a family that valued education, but like many children of the time, he was expected to contribute to the family’s livelihood. His mother, Martha Ellen Truman, nurtured his love of reading, which helped shape his intellectual curiosity and leadership skills later in life.
Truman’s early years were marked by humility and perseverance. He didn’t attend college, instead working on the family farm and serving in the Missouri National Guard during World War I. This modest background would later define his approach to politics and leadership, characterized by a deep sense of duty, integrity, and a no-nonsense attitude.
The Rise to President: From County Judge to the White House
Harry Truman’s political career began in local Missouri politics, serving as a county judge, where he gained a reputation for fairness and hard work. His first significant national exposure came as a U.S.
Senator from Missouri, where he became known for his leadership on the Truman Committee, which aimed to root out corruption in defense spending during World War II. His ability to save taxpayer money earned him national recognition.
In 1944, Truman was chosen as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s running mate during FDR’s fourth presidential campaign. When Roosevelt passed away just three months into his term, Truman was thrust into the presidency, facing one of the most challenging periods in American history.
Harry Truman’s Presidency: Leading Through Crisis
Harry Truman’s presidency began during the final months of World War II. One of his most controversial decisions was to authorize the use of atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, ultimately leading to Japan’s surrender and the war’s end.
After the war, Truman faced new global challenges, including the start of the Cold War and the need to rebuild Europe through the Marshall Plan. His Truman Doctrine laid the groundwork for U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, emphasizing containment of communism.
Domestically, Truman’s efforts to advance civil rights led to the desegregation of the U.S. military, a landmark decision for the nation. His presidency also saw the start of the Korean War, where he committed U.S. forces to defend South Korea against the communist North.
Legacy: A President Respected for His Integrity and Tough Decisions
Truman left office in 1953 with a mixed reputation, largely due to the Korean War and domestic economic challenges. However, in the decades since, his legacy has been re-evaluated, and he is now regarded as one of the most effective U.S. presidents.
His decisions during critical moments—both in foreign and domestic policy—helped shape the modern world order and laid the groundwork for civil rights advancements.
Truman’s Favorite Food: Well-done Steak
Harry Truman’s love for well-done steak was well-known, reflecting his no-nonsense, practical personality. Raised in a farming community, Truman grew up on simple, hearty meals, and his food preferences never strayed far from his roots.
A well-done New York strip steak, paired with roasted potatoes, was a favorite of Truman’s, symbolizing his connection to traditional American values and his Midwestern upbringing.
Truman’s staff recalled that the president preferred his steak cooked thoroughly, without any trace of pink in the center. Paired with potatoes, this meal was often served during family dinners at the White House, as well as at Truman’s home in Independence.
The dish’s straightforward preparation and satisfying flavors matched Truman’s own persona—solid, dependable, and deeply American.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe for Harry Truman’s favorite one-dish meal: well-done New York strip steak with roasted potatoes, all cooked in a cast iron skillet.
NY Strip Steak and Potatoes Recipe
NY Strip and Potatoes Skillet
Ingredients
For the steaks:
- 2 12 oz New York strip steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 sprig fresh thyme optional
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Potatoes:
- 1 lb baby potatoes or russet potatoes cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the potato pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- While the potatoes are roasting, take the New York strip steaks out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side to get a nice crust.
Step 3: Cook the Steaks
- Lower the heat to medium, add the butter, minced garlic, and thyme (optional) to the skillet. Baste the steaks with the butter as they cook.
- To cook the steak well-done, continue to cook for an additional 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve the well-done New York strip steaks alongside the crispy roasted potatoes.
Video
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Notes
- Steak Temperature: For a well-done steak, ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
- Potato Variations: You can use baby potatoes, russet potatoes, or Yukon Gold potatoes for this dish. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Resting Time: Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.