White House Chef Has Heavy Holiday Workload

Dec. 1, 2005 -- -- Being the executive chef at the White House is one of the most coveted culinary positions out there. But along with the prestige comes a great deal of responsibility.

Cristeta Comerford, the first female to run the White House kitchen, supervises the preparation of an average of 2,000 meals a month -- even more during the holidays. During the holiday season, Comerford, who works closely with the first lady, will be busy serving more than 9,000 guests at 25 separate parties. Her workday can be 18-hours long.

Comerford's job is interesting because of the duality it involves. The White House kitchen has to serve two purposes: serve hundreds of important guests at one sitting as well as the needs of an American family. So the family fridge has things as simple as English muffins, bread and fruit while the rest of the kitchen is stacked to the gills with everything a chef might need.

Comerford talked to ABC News' Claire Shipman about the joys and pressures of the job.

CS: Hundreds of applicants for this job, you were chosen, what does it feel like?

Comerford: It's very humbling, it's -- out of those many people you get to be chosen, so it's great. But when you get it, you're like: "I better do this job and do it well."

CS: A lot of people talk about it being a big deal that you're the first woman. ... Do you think it's different for anyone working here?

Comerford: Actually, I know a lot of other women chefs that are just as talented. We're just as good as the men out there. So it's a good thing.

CS: What has been your biggest challenge so far?

Comerford: Prince Charles was a big challenge, because it was, you know, like a really high profile. I mean, how many times would you entertain a prince and his wife coming to your house?

CS: If I wandered in right now and said I want a double hot fudge sundae with cherries on top ...

Comerford: We have it all. We have everything

CS: How about fried Oreos?

Comerford: Fried Oreos. I don't think I've done that. I've never tried it, but maybe I should.

CS: Do you guys have a stash around here of Twinkies and junk food or is that someplace else?

Comerford: No, that's probably out in the vending machines out there in the West Wing -- but not here in the residence.

CS: The one other thing that I think people don't know is just how small the kitchen is. It's a small space.

Comerford: You have to remember that this is a home. So you have to find nooks and crannies. As you can see, everything is filled to the roof.

CS: Now, do you cook at home? Do you cook when you go home?

Comerford: We cook once in awhile. But you know, just being in the business the last thing you want to do at home is cook.