For years, Hoda Kotb's demanding schedule as a morning news anchor meant her breakfast had to be quick, easy, and energizing. Her famous 'eggs in a mug' recipe, taught to her by nutritionist Joy Bauer, became a staple for its simplicity and efficiency. However, as her life and career have evolved, so too have her morning meals, reflecting a deeper commitment to overall wellness and mindful eating.
The Famous 'Eggs in a Mug' Recipe
For many who followed her on the Today Show, Hoda's go-to breakfast was a simple two-ingredient dish. Taught to her by a nutritionist on the show, the recipe is a testament to finding nutritious options that don't sacrifice time. The ingredients are simply eggs, salsa, and a pinch of salt and pepper for taste. You crack the eggs into a mug, mix everything together, and microwave it for about a minute. The result is a fluffy, flavorful omelet-like meal that's ready in no time. This was an ideal solution during her most hectic years, ensuring she got protein and a quick energy boost before the show started at 7 a.m..
Her Evolving Breakfast Habits
While the eggs in a mug recipe has long been her fallback, Hoda has openly discussed other food choices that have powered her through early mornings. In a 2019 interview with People, she admitted to sometimes indulging in Starbucks' Sous Vide Egg Bites, despite her mother's concerns about their sodium content. She noted, “My mom was like, 'They're full of sodium, stop eating them.' But who cares? They're good”. Later, she also shared that on some days, she would pack carrot sticks with hummus as her quick and easy breakfast snack.
Beyond specific food items, Hoda has experimented with different eating strategies. In 2019, she and co-host Jenna Bush Hager began intermittent fasting, restricting their eating window to between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.. Hoda reported feeling “really energized” by this change, having her first meal at 10 a.m. (the start of their fourth-hour show). This was a departure from her earlier, pre-7 a.m. fueling strategy and demonstrated her willingness to adapt her habits for perceived health benefits.
Wellness and the Breakfast Table
As Hoda's routine has shifted away from the most demanding early-morning schedule, her approach to breakfast has also changed. She now incorporates more mindful practices into her mornings, including meditation and journaling, which complement a more intentional approach to eating. She revealed that she's learned to focus on how food makes her feel, saying, “I'm trying to make my eating windows maybe not so tasty, but also it makes for a better day”. This philosophy prioritizes long-term well-being over short-term gratification.
Hoda's Daily Wellness Habits
- Lemon-Ginger Tea: Hoda often starts her day with a refreshing lemon-ginger tea, using frozen cubes from Trader Joe's. She believes it makes her feel “alive, great, clearer” due to its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties.
- Movement: Exercise is a consistent part of her routine. She enjoys workouts, including walks in the park, which serve as both physical activity and a mental reset.
- Mindfulness: Journaling, meditation, and consciously creating space in her schedule are all crucial components of her updated morning regimen.
Comparison: Past vs. Present Morning Routine
| Feature | Past (Early Morning Anchor) | Present (Post-Today Show) |
|---|---|---|
| Wake-up time | As early as 3:15 a.m. | Waking up later, around 4:30 a.m. or 5:30 a.m. |
| Breakfast focus | Quick, energizing, on-the-go meals | Mindful, often later in the morning, focusing on feeling good |
| Dietary approach | Standard morning meal, or quick snacks | Explored intermittent fasting and focuses on nutritious foods |
| Morning activities | Sprinting to the studio, hair and makeup | Meditation, journaling, walks, and preparing for her children |
| Snacks | Starbucks egg bites, carrots with hummus | Lemon-ginger tea, sometimes other options |
A Holistic View of Her Morning Meals
Hoda's breakfast story is a perfect example of how one's diet can shift alongside major life changes. The early days required simple, fast options that could be eaten on the run, like the famous eggs in a mug or even processed items from Starbucks. This was a necessity born from a grueling, time-sensitive job. The period of intermittent fasting showed a more conscious effort to align with specific health trends. Now, in a new phase of her career and life, Hoda's focus has become more holistic. Her breakfast is no longer just about fuel; it's part of a larger, more mindful morning ritual that includes meditation, journaling, and intentional wellness choices. She has embraced the wisdom that a nourishing morning routine contributes not just to physical health, but mental clarity and overall joy.
For those looking to draw inspiration from Hoda, the takeaway is not a single recipe, but a philosophy. You can find quick and healthy options when time is tight, but also understand that making space for more mindful eating practices is beneficial when your schedule allows. This evolution shows a mature and balanced approach to wellness, prioritizing self-care over adherence to a rigid routine. It highlights that everyone's nutritional needs and habits can, and often should, change over time. Hoda's story is a reminder that what we eat is intrinsically tied to how we live and feel. It's not just about the food, but the habits and mindfulness surrounding it. In one of her wellness articles, she emphasizes the importance of movement and enjoying nature, which is a great parallel to her changing diet. She has consistently shared her health journey, offering insights into how her decisions have impacted her energy and happiness.
Her shift also reflects a change in pace. Instead of sprinting through her mornings, she now has more time for reflection and a slower start to the day. This allows for a breakfast that is savored rather than just consumed. The lesson from Hoda's changing breakfast is that a healthy diet adapts to your life stage and priorities. First for Women has also highlighted her wellness tips, reinforcing her focus on overall health.
