The royal family has always been interested in trying different types of food in the United States during their visits to the country, according to a new book. Tom Parker Bowles, the author of “Cooking & the Crown: Royal Recipes from Queen Victoria to King Charles III,” shares the stories and experiences of the royal family with food over the past two centuries. Parker Bowles, who is the son of Queen Camilla, is well-known for his work as a food writer and restaurant critic.
When asked about the monarchs’ culinary adventures, Parker Bowles highlighted the importance of trying out the local cuisine when traveling. He mentioned that America has some of the best regional food in the world, so it is only natural for the royals to indulge in American dishes during their visits.
One notable American dish that made an impact on the British royal family was the hot dog. King George VI and President Franklin Delano Roosevelt shared a meal of hot dogs in Hyde Park, New York, in June 1939. This seemingly simple meal turned into a significant conversation about the growing threat of Nazi Germany. Parker Bowles emphasized the power of food in bringing people together and sparking important discussions.
In addition to the historical significance of the hot dog meal, Parker Bowles also shared some lighter food-related anecdotes from the royal family’s visits to the United States. For example, former President Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy treated Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to a Californian Tex-Mex feast, which included enchiladas and refried beans. These unexpected food choices added a touch of excitement to the royal family’s culinary experiences in America.
Furthermore, Parker Bowles revealed that Prince Philip had a surprising hobby of grilling and barbecuing. He was known for his love of food and cooking, even designing his own multi-level grill with different heat levels. The royal chef, Mark Flanagan, spoke highly of Prince Philip’s cooking skills, highlighting his talent for choosing cuts of meat and creating marinades.
Overall, the stories and recipes shared by Parker Bowles in his book shed light on the royal family’s culinary adventures in America and provide a glimpse into their food preferences and experiences. The power of food to bring people together and initiate important conversations is a central theme throughout the book, showcasing the role of cuisine in shaping historical events and personal relationships.