1. Khichdi
Perhaps the dish most famously associated with PM Modi is Khichdi. This humble, one-pot meal of rice and lentils is a cornerstone of Indian home cooking, known for being nutritious and easy to digest. Reports suggest he prefers the simple Gujarati version,
often made with moong dal. It’s a comforting meal that is both nourishing and light, making it a suitable dinner choice for someone with a packed schedule. His affinity for this dish is so well-known that it's often highlighted as his ultimate comfort food.
2. Dhokla
As a quintessential Gujarati snack, it's no surprise that Dhokla is a reported favourite. This soft, spongy cake is made from a fermented batter of gram flour (besan) and is steamed, not fried, making it a healthy, low-fat, and high-protein option. Sources mention that PM Modi particularly enjoys the 'khatta' or sour version of Dhokla. Its light texture and tangy flavour make it a popular snack across the country, but its roots are firmly planted in his home state of Gujarat.
3. Moringa Paratha
PM Modi has been a vocal advocate for including nutritious, traditional ingredients in modern diets, and his own reported consumption of Moringa (drumstick leaf) parathas is a prime example. He reportedly incorporates this dish into his weekly diet. Moringa leaves are considered a superfood, packed with vitamins A and C, protein, and other essential nutrients. By adding these leaves to a simple whole wheat flatbread, it becomes a powerhouse of nutrition, reflecting a blend of tradition and health consciousness.
4. Khandvi
Another beloved snack from Gujarat, Khandvi is also said to be on the Prime Minister's list of preferred foods. These delicate, tightly rolled sheets are made from a batter of gram flour and buttermilk or yogurt, seasoned with a tempering of mustard seeds, sesame seeds, and curry leaves. Known for its silky texture and savoury taste, Khandvi is a light yet satisfying snack. Its inclusion reflects a continued appreciation for the diverse and flavourful snacks that Gujarati cuisine has to offer.
5. Shrikhand
While known for his disciplined eating habits, there is also room for a traditional sweet. Shrikhand, a classic dessert made from hung yogurt (chakka), is another dish associated with him. This creamy, sweet preparation is often flavoured with saffron, cardamom, and nuts. While it is a dessert, its base of strained yogurt makes it rich in probiotics. It’s a dish that represents a balance between indulgence and traditional preparation methods, often enjoyed in moderation.
6. Makhana (Fox Nuts)
While not a full plate, Makhana, or fox nuts, are a snack that PM Modi has personally mentioned consuming with remarkable frequency. In one instance, he noted that he eats makhana for a large part of the year. This light, crunchy, and nutritious snack is low in calories but high in protein and essential minerals. Often simply roasted, makhanas are a healthy alternative to processed snacks, aligning with his focus on simple and wholesome eating.
7. Bhindi Kadhi
A lesser-known but reportedly favoured dish is Bhindi Kadhi, a unique Gujarati preparation. Unlike the more common Punjabi kadhi, this version features okra (bhindi) cooked in a yogurt and gram flour-based stew. It's a light, easy-to-digest curry that pairs well with rotis or rice. This choice highlights a preference for regional, homely preparations that are both flavourful and align with the principles of a simple, Sattvik diet.
