Rosalynn Carter, who served as First Lady alongside her husband, President Jimmy Carter, is remembered for her contributions to American cooking. The Carters, who were childhood friends from Plains, Georgia, married on July 7, 1946, and shared a life together for 77 years until Rosalynn’s passing at the age of 96 on November 19, 2023. President Carter followed her in death on December 29, 2024.
Rosalynn’s culinary skills were well-known, with one of her notable creations being the “Plains Special” Cheese Ring, recognized by the U.S. National Archives. Jimmy Carter mentioned in an interview with The Washington Post that they shared cooking responsibilities, noting that he enjoyed Southern dishes such as corn on the cob and fried chicken. Rosalynn also recalled that in the early days of their marriage, both of them took turns cooking.
Growing up on a farm, Rosalynn valued fresh ingredients and was mindful of food additives, often checking ingredient labels for what she was consuming. When she returned home to Georgia, her first stop was typically the store for fresh vegetables, which were scarce during their travels.
Life at the White House brought changes to their dining experience. With a full staff and four chefs available, one of Rosalynn’s first actions was to ensure that the White House cooks could prepare the Southern meals they loved. President Carter recounted that the cooks were already familiar with such meals, having prepared them for the staff for many years.
For those interested in making Rosalynn’s well-loved cheese ring for holiday gatherings, here’s a simple recipe adapted from Southern Living that can be prepared quickly. To keep the mixture from sticking, it’s recommended to line the mold with plastic wrap. While crackers are a traditional pairing, serving the cheese ring with fresh veggies or toasted pita is also a great option.
Ingredients include 1 pound of grated sharp cheese, 1 cup of finely chopped nuts, 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 small grated onion, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne. Optional strawberry preserves can be used for serving.
To prepare, mix all ingredients except the preserves and season with pepper. Place the mix into a 5- or 6-cup ring mold and refrigerate until firm, which may take several hours or overnight. When ready to serve, unmold the cheese ring and fill the center with strawberry preserves if desired, or enjoy it plain with crackers.
What are your favorite holiday appetizers?
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Source: Upworthy, by Emily Shiffer