When you picture a royal feast at the Pataudi palace, you might imagine rich curries and elaborate kebabs. But according to Kareena Kapoor Khan, the reality is far simpler, healthier, and greener than you'd expect.
The Lauki Revelation
In a candid chat on a television show,
Kareena Kapoor Khan pulled back the curtain on the Pataudi family's dining habits, revealing a collective preference for healthy, simple food. She laughingly shared that the entire Pataudi clan, from her husband Saif Ali Khan to her mother-in-law Sharmila Tagore and sisters-in-law Soha and Saba, regularly enjoys 'lauki' (bottle gourd). 'They get lauki cooked every time', she exclaimed, contrasting it with her own Kapoor family's love for heartier fare like 'paya' and pizza. Saif, present during the conversation, sheepishly admitted it was his favourite vegetable, though not something he likes to announce. Kareena has even called lauki her 'superpower vegetable' for gut health, often opting for its soup to feel better.
A Tale of Two Kitchens
The actress humorously painted a picture of two families at opposite ends of the culinary spectrum. 'We are too unhealthy', she joked about the Kapoors, known for their love of rich, flavourful food. Saif has also remarked on the Kapoor family's fondness for Indian-style Chinese food, suggesting they could eat it three times a day. On the other hand, the Pataudis lean towards a more disciplined and health-conscious approach. This dynamic highlights the fascinating blend of cultures and tastes within one of Bollywood's most-watched families, where a love for both gourmet pizza and simple bottle gourd can coexist.
Saif's Simple Palate
While his royal lineage is associated with the rich culinary traditions of Pataudi, Saif Ali Khan himself is a proponent of simple, home-cooked meals. He has shared in interviews that his typical lunch is vegetarian, often consisting of 'sabzi, bhindi, dal, and one roti'. While he enjoys cooking and is known to be a good chef who can whip up pasta or roast chicken, his daily preference is for light, wholesome food. This disciplined approach is something he maintains even when at the Pataudi palace. Saif has stated he isn't very 'sensory-based' with his food, prioritising fitness and function over indulgence for his daily meals. He considers 'dal chawal' a comfort lunch and has a fondness for 'bhindi' from his childhood.
The Pataudi Culinary Legacy
The Pataudi kitchen wasn't always just about simple greens. The family has a rich history, and with it, a legacy of fine food. Interestingly, it was Saif's father, the legendary cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, who became the family's master chef. His wife, Sharmila Tagore, hilariously recounted how she avoided kitchen duties early in their marriage. When 'Tiger' Pataudi suggested she should visit the kitchen three times a day, she cleverly retorted that it would be 'counterproductive'. He eventually took up cooking himself and became exceptionally good at it, learning recipes from friends and YouTube to create fantastic meals. While Sharmila Tagore notes that she gained a new culture and cuisine through her marriage, it was her husband who truly mastered it.
Kareena's Influence: 'Ghar Ka Khana'
While Kareena may jest about her love for indulgent food, she has long been an advocate for simple , home - cooked meals or 'ghar ka khana'. Her diet philosophy , often guided by her nutritionist , revolves around traditional Indian food , portion control , and not starving herself . She has famously praised dishes like 'khichdi' with a dollop of ghee as a favourite comfort food she could eat multiple times a week . This belief in simple , nutritious food aligns perfectly with the Pataudi household 's habits . It ’s a testament to the couple 's shared values that , despite their royal and celebrity statuses , the heart of their home life is grounded in the simplicity of a well - cooked , healthy meal .
