1. Khichdi
If there is one dish synonymous with PM Modi, it is Khichdi. Its widely reported as his ultimate comfort food and a staple in his diet, especially for dinner. This simple preparation of rice and lentils, particularly the Gujarati moong dal version, is light,
nutritious, and easy to digest—ideal for maintaining energy during a demanding schedule. In interviews, he has spoken about his fondness for the dish and how he used to cook it himself in his early days, cementing its place as a personal favourite. Its recurring presence in his meals, whether at home or on travels, underscores his preference for simple, wholesome eating.
2. Moringa Paratha
A perhaps less common but significant feature of the Prime Ministers diet is the Moringa Paratha. Made from the leaves of the drumstick tree, this flatbread is a powerhouse of nutrients. PM Modi has reportedly shared his liking for these parathas, which he is said to consume at least once or twice a week. Moringa is celebrated in Ayurveda for its rich antioxidant content and benefits for immunity and blood pressure. By incorporating these leaves into a daily staple like paratha, his diet reflects a blend of traditional flavours and profound health consciousness.
3. Dhokla
As a proud Gujarati, its no surprise that Dhokla is a favoured snack. This savoury steamed cake, made from a fermented batter of gram flour (besan), is a classic from his home state. Reports mention his preference for the light, spongy snack, which is high in protein and low in fat due to its steamed preparation. Its a healthy indulgence that aligns perfectly with his disciplined lifestyle, offering a taste of home that is both flavourful and nourishing.
4. Makhana (Fox Nuts)
One of the most specific dietary details to emerge came from the Prime Minister himself. At a public event, he mentioned that he eats Makhana, or fox nuts, a remarkable "300 out of 365 days" a year. He touted the snack as a superfood that should be taken to global markets. These roasted lotus seeds are light, crunchy, low in calories, and packed with protein and antioxidants. This habit highlights his commitment to snacking healthy and championing indigenous Indian produce.
5. Millets
Long before it became a global conversation, millets were a part of PM Modis diet. He is a vocal advocate for these ancient grains, and his personal diet reflects this. Stories mention his fondness for dishes made from millets like bajra and ragi, including millet-based khichdi. These grains are gluten-free, high in fibre, and packed with nutrients, supporting digestion and stable energy levels. His dietary choice is a personal endorsement of the crops he encourages the nation and the world to embrace for a healthier future.
6. Himalayan Mushrooms
This food item became a topic of widespread discussion due to a political comment. An opposition leader once claimed PM Modi owed his complexion to expensive Taiwanese mushrooms. While the story originated as a political jab, follow-up reports clarified the Prime Ministers actual fondness for a specific variety of mushroom: Guchchi, a wild mushroom found in the Himalayas. This variety is famously expensive because it cannot be commercially cultivated and is foraged from the wild. Though not a daily staple, its mention in stories paints a picture of a palate that appreciates rare, indigenous delicacies.
7. Buttermilk (Chaas)
No simple Indian meal is complete without a cooling digestive, and for PM Modi, that often means buttermilk, or 'chaas'. It is a traditional yogurt-based drink that is a staple in Gujarati households. When a chef was tasked with preparing his meals during a visit to the US, a special request was made for 'chaas' to be included. Buttermilk is known for aiding digestion and its cooling properties. This simple, unpretentious drink is a fitting accompaniment to his preferred style of eating and is frequently cited alongside other Gujarati dishes he enjoys.
