The Disciplined Daily Routine
Queen Elizabeth II maintained a structured and consistent approach to her meals throughout her life, a routine that played a role in her longevity. Her eating habits were largely influenced by simplicity and seasonality, with much of her produce and meat coming from her own estates. While she had a large staff of chefs at her disposal, she was known to approve menu plans for the week, often making slight adjustments. Her day was typically divided into four smaller, regular meals: breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. This disciplined schedule meant she was less likely to overeat or feel heavy during her busy days of public engagements or administrative duties.
A Royal Day of Eating
Breakfast: A Simple Start
Her Majesty's day began with a cup of Earl Grey tea, served without milk or sugar, accompanied by a few biscuits. Following this, she would have a simple breakfast of cereal, often Special K, with fruit. On more indulgent occasions, she would opt for scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and a grating of truffle. The Queen famously preferred brown eggs, believing them to have a superior flavor.
Lunch: Lean and Light
Before her midday meal, the Queen would enjoy a cocktail, typically a gin and Dubonnet with a slice of lemon and plenty of ice. Lunch itself was kept light and low in carbohydrates, especially when she was dining alone. Her preference was for simple protein and vegetables, such as grilled Dover sole on a bed of wilted spinach or grilled chicken with a salad. The "no starch" rule when dining solo was a notable feature of her diet.
Afternoon Tea: The Ritual Indulgence
Afternoon tea was a cherished daily ritual, even while traveling. It was an opportunity for a variety of small treats, including finger sandwiches with the crusts removed. Favorite fillings included cucumber, smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise, or ham and mustard. The spread also included scones with jam and cream, and, importantly, her favorite cakes. Chief among her beloved cakes was the chocolate biscuit cake, a treat so cherished that leftover pieces were sent with her when she traveled to different residences. The menu also featured small, round jam sandwiches known as 'jam pennies,' a nod to a childhood favorite.
Dinner: Sourcing from the Estate
Dinner followed the same principle of simple, balanced eating. It would often consist of simply cooked meat or fish, sourced from her own estates when possible, accompanied by fresh vegetables. Options included venison, pheasant, beef, or salmon. She famously requested her meat to be cooked well-done. Dessert was a lighter affair, featuring seasonal fruit like peaches or strawberries, but her love for chocolate meant a slice of chocolate cake or mousse was also a frequent option. The day would be concluded with a glass of champagne.
A Comparison of Royal Dining
| Meal Aspect | Daily Meal (Dined Alone) | State Dinner/Formal Event |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Generally avoided (no potatoes, pasta, rice) | Present, often in elaborate forms like soufflés or rich sauces |
| Flavor Profile | Simple, clean flavors | More complex, often featuring heavy sauces and elaborate preparations |
| Protein | Lean and simply grilled fish or chicken | Richer meats like lamb, beef, or complex fish dishes |
| Alcohol | Predetermined favorites (gin and Dubonnet, champagne) | Paired wines appropriate for each course |
| Menu Input | Personal weekly approval | Pre-vetted and often a set menu based on formality |
Foods on the 'No' List
Even with an extensive royal menu, there were certain foods the Queen preferred to avoid, based on personal preference or established royal etiquette:
- Garlic and Onions: Strong, pungent foods were avoided to prevent lingering breath during public appearances.
- Rare Meat: Her Majesty preferred her meat, especially beef, to be cooked well-done.
- Shellfish: While not a strict ban, shellfish was often avoided as a precaution against food poisoning, particularly when traveling.
- Unseasonal Fruit: The Queen had a strong preference for eating fruit and vegetables when they were naturally in season. Serving strawberries in January was a definite no-no.
The Nutritional Legacy
While her diet wasn't based on modern fad diets, Queen Elizabeth's eating habits hold up well from a nutritional perspective. The focus on lean protein (fish, game, chicken), fresh fruits, and vegetables provided a balanced intake of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which are important for heart and brain health. The "no starch" rule when dining alone likely helped maintain her weight and energy levels throughout the day. Her consistent routine and moderation, including enjoying treats without excess, proved to be a sustainable and healthy approach to eating over her long life.
Conclusion: A Queen's Lasting Dietary Lessons
Queen Elizabeth II’s diet demonstrates that a healthy, long life isn't about extreme restrictions or following the latest dietary trends. Instead, it was defined by sensible choices: a consistent routine, an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and the enjoyable indulgence of favorite foods in moderation. Her royal plate, while simple, serves as a testament to the power of a disciplined and balanced approach to nutrition, a principle that remains timeless and universally applicable.
Learn more about royal dining traditions and recipes at Eating Royally.
