Pickled Herring, Swiss Cheese, and a Chop

Pickled Herring, Swiss Cheese, and a Chop

Grover Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, had a fondness for pickled herring, Swiss cheese, and a chop: a hearty, flavorful combination that reflects his straightforward and robust approach to both dining and governance. This meal offers a taste of the traditional, satisfying foods that Cleveland enjoyed, providing a unique insight into the culinary preferences of one of America’s most steadfast leaders.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

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

Pickled Herring Selection:

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.

Cheese Pairing:

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.

Chop Preparation:

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.