9. Ike and his steaks were both a show and a feast
When President Eisenhower grilled steaks for his guests at Camp David he foreshadowed the cooking shows and demonstrations which would later command entire networks on cable television. Ike liked steaks that were thick. Very thick. He would have the navy staff prepare cuts of prime beef four or more inches thick, and then show his guests the slabs of beef, pointing out the marbling and explaining why it was necessary. He would then season them in front of his guests, discussing all the while the need for the coals to be just the right temperature. Ike then threw the steaks directly on the coals (no grate), no doubt startling guests witnessing the performance for the first time.
Eisenhower preferred sirloins for his monster steaks, which emerged from the presidential grill crusty and charred on the outside, rare and juicy on the inside, and cemented the president’s cherished reputation as an expert with barbecue. One wonders how the president would have regarded the propane grills which gained popularity in American suburbs following his administration. It should be noted however that as President, Eisenhower suffered several heart attacks, as well as digestive tract disorders and other illnesses linked today to immoderate diet, so following his lead on the Camp David grill may not be in the best interests of anyone.
