Grover Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, is the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms. Known for his straightforward and honest approach to governance, Cleveland also had simple, yet distinct, culinary preferences.
Among his favorite foods were pickled herring, Swiss cheese, and a chop—a combination that reflects his appreciation for hearty, flavorful, and traditional dishes. In this blog post, we’ll explore Cleveland’s life, his presidency, and his connection to this unique trio of foods.
We’ll also share a recipe that brings these flavors together, offering a taste of the dishes Cleveland enjoyed.
Early Life and Political Rise
Grover Cleveland was born on March 18, 1837, in Caldwell, New Jersey, into a large and modest family. His early career was marked by hard work and perseverance, as he rose from humble beginnings to become a successful lawyer in Buffalo, New York.
Cleveland’s reputation for integrity and his commitment to reform earned him the nickname “Grover the Good,” and he quickly rose through the political ranks, becoming the Mayor of Buffalo and later the Governor of New York.
The First Term: A Focus on Reform
Cleveland was elected as the 22nd President of the United States in 1884, running on a platform of political reform and opposition to corruption. His first term was characterized by his efforts to combat the spoils system, reduce government waste, and maintain a limited role for the federal government.
Despite facing considerable opposition, Cleveland remained steadfast in his principles, vetoing numerous bills he deemed unnecessary or extravagant.
The Second Term: Economic Challenges
After losing the 1888 election, Cleveland returned to the White House in 1893, becoming the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms. His second term was dominated by economic issues, including the Panic of 1893, a severe depression that led to widespread unemployment and social unrest.
Cleveland’s response to the crisis, including his support for the gold standard and his opposition to free silver, was controversial and alienated many within his own party. Despite these challenges, Cleveland’s commitment to fiscal conservatism and his belief in limited government intervention remained central to his presidency.
Legacy of Grover Cleveland
Grover Cleveland left office in 1897, returning to private life with his reputation for honesty and integrity largely intact. His legacy is one of steadfast adherence to principle, even in the face of political adversity. Cleveland’s leadership style, characterized by his commitment to reform and his focus on economic responsibility, has earned him a respected place in American history.
Grover Cleveland’s Connection to Pickled Herring, Swiss Cheese, and a Chop
Grover Cleveland’s culinary tastes were as straightforward and robust as his political philosophy. He was particularly fond of pickled herring, Swiss cheese, and a chop—a combination that reflects his appreciation for hearty, flavorful foods with a touch of Old World tradition.
Cleveland once expressed his preference for this simple meal in a letter to a friend, saying, “I must go to dinner, but I wish it was to eat a pickled herring, a Swiss cheese, and a chop at Louis’ instead of the French stuff I shall find.” This quote highlights Cleveland’s love for these straightforward, satisfying foods over more elaborate fare.
Pickled herring, a dish with deep roots in European cuisine, was likely a comfort food for Cleveland, who enjoyed the briny, tangy flavors that it offered. This dish was a staple in many immigrant communities in America during the 19th century, and Cleveland’s preference for it may have been influenced by his exposure to these diverse culinary traditions.
Swiss cheese, with its mild, nutty flavor, paired well with the pickled herring, providing a creamy contrast to the fish’s sharpness. Cleveland’s love for this combination shows his appreciation for simple, quality ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal.
Finally, the chop—likely a lamb or pork chop—added a hearty, meaty element to Cleveland’s plate, rounding out the meal with a rich and savory flavor. This trio of foods, each with its own distinct taste and texture, offers a glimpse into the president’s down-to-earth and traditional culinary preferences.
Recipe for a Grover Cleveland-Inspired Meal: Pickled Herring, Swiss Cheese, and a Chop
Pickled Herring, Swiss Cheese, and a Chop
Ingredients
For the Pickled Herring:
- 1 jar of pickled herring available in most grocery stores
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill chopped
For the Swiss Cheese Platter:
- 8-10 slices of Swiss cheese
- A handful of crackers or crusty bread
For the Chop:
- 4 lamb or pork chops
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Pickled Herring:
- Arrange the pickled herring on a serving plate. Top with thinly sliced red onion and sprinkle with fresh dill. Set aside to serve with the meal.
Assembling the Swiss Cheese Platter:
- Arrange slices of Swiss cheese on a serving platter with crackers or crusty bread on the side. The cheese should be served at room temperature for the best flavor.
Cooking the Chops:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture onto both sides of the chops.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chops and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are browned and cooked to your desired doneness (internal temperature of 145°F/63°C for medium-rare).
- Remove the chops from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving the Meal:
- Serve the chops alongside the pickled herring and Swiss cheese platter. This meal is best enjoyed with a glass of cold beer or a crisp white wine.
Video
Notes
- Choosing the Best Herring: If you have access to a specialty store or deli, look for high-quality pickled herring, which will have a fresher, more vibrant flavor than mass-produced options.
- Enhancing the Cheese Platter: While Swiss cheese is Cleveland’s favorite, consider adding other cheeses like Gruyère or Emmental to create a more varied cheese platter.
- Cooking Method: For an even richer flavor, consider grilling the chops instead of pan-searing them. The smoky char from the grill will add an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the other components of the meal.