The Comforting Favorites: Chole Bhature and Rajma Chawal
Despite his incredibly strict regimen, Virat Kohli is a Punjabi at heart and has a well-documented soft spot for certain comfort foods. His number one all-time favourite cheat meal is the classic North Indian dish, Chole Bhature. He has often mentioned his love for this street food, specifically from a place in Delhi called Rama Chole Bhature. This indulgence is reserved for rare cheat days, a testament to his dedication to fitness.
Another beloved dish that holds a special place for Kohli is homemade Rajma Chawal. The aromatic blend of kidney beans in a flavorful gravy served with rice reminds him of his childhood and is a perfect treat on a lazy day. Other Punjabi delicacies he enjoys include Dal Makhani and Kadhi Chawal, which he often enjoys when he wants a taste of home.
From Non-Vegetarian to Vegan: A Dietary Evolution
Kohli's dietary journey is a story of evolution driven by his pursuit of peak performance. Early in his career, like many athletes, his diet included non-vegetarian options such as chicken and salmon. However, a turning point came when he faced health issues like high acidity and high uric acid levels. In 2018, he made the crucial decision to eliminate meat from his diet, transitioning to a vegetarian lifestyle.
He eventually took his diet a step further by adopting a vegan lifestyle. This was not a move taken lightly, and his coach has revealed that Kohli had many questions about ensuring he would get complete proteins. However, the switch has paid dividends, with Kohli reporting a noticeable increase in stamina and energy levels since becoming vegan. This commitment to a plant-based diet proves that a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle is more than capable of fuelling a successful athletic career.
The Everyday Diet of a High-Performance Athlete
Kohli's daily eating habits are a masterclass in discipline, focusing on nutrient-dense, simple preparations. He famously revealed that around 90% of his daily food is steamed or boiled, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and lime. He prioritizes how food fuels his body over its taste, a mindset that has enabled him to eat the same meals for extended periods without complaint.
Key Components of Kohli's Vegan Diet
- Protein-rich Legumes: As a vegan, Kohli relies on pulses like lentils (dal), chickpeas (chana), and kidney beans (rajma) to meet his protein needs. These provide essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- Whole Grains: Quinoa and gluten-free bread provide long-lasting energy and essential nutrients, forming a key part of his daily meals.
- Loads of Vegetables: Greens like spinach, kale, broccoli, and lettuce are staples in his diet, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber. He consumes them in salads, stir-fries, and smoothies.
- Healthy Fats and Snacks: Nuts, seeds, and avocado are included for their healthy fats, protein, and minerals. He also enjoys fresh fruits like watermelon and papaya as snacks.
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is critical. He drinks plenty of water and green tea throughout the day, which also helps flush out toxins.
Foods Virat Kohli Avoids
To maintain his elite fitness, Kohli strictly avoids or limits certain foods:
- Fried and Processed Foods: He completely stays away from unhealthy fried snacks and processed items, which can hinder his performance and recovery.
- Rich, Spicy Curries: Despite his Punjabi roots, he has cut back on heavy curries that are difficult to digest. Instead, he opts for simple, home-cooked dishes.
- Sugary Foods and Drinks: He has eliminated sugar from his diet, choosing natural sweeteners and whole fruits instead.
- Gluten and Dairy: He avoids gluten to reduce inflammation and limits his dairy intake as part of his vegan lifestyle, opting for soy-based alternatives.
Comparison: Cheat Day vs. Everyday Diet
| Feature | Cheat Day (Rarely) | Everyday Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Main Dish | Chole Bhature, Rajma Chawal | Steamed/boiled vegetables, quinoa, dal |
| Preparation | Deep-fried, flavorful curries | Minimally seasoned, pan-grilled, boiled |
| Focus | Indulgence, nostalgic taste | Peak athletic performance, fuel |
| Beverage | Lassi | Water, green tea |
| Protein Source | Paneer Patties | Lentils, chickpeas, tofu |
| Snacks | Marie Biscuit Sandwich | Fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, sprouts |
The Philosophy of Food as Fuel
For Virat Kohli, food is not merely for enjoyment but is a critical component of his success. His commitment to simple, nutritious meals has enabled him to maintain his fitness level and longevity in the game. His dietary approach reflects a deep understanding of his body's needs and a philosophy where every meal is a strategic choice to enhance performance. By embracing this mindset, he continues to inspire millions, both on and off the field, with his jaw-dropping fitness.
Conclusion In summary, what is Virat Kohli's favourite food is a complex question with two answers: the nostalgic comfort of Chole Bhature for rare indulgence, and a strict, performance-focused vegan diet for daily life. His evolution from a non-vegetarian to a disciplined vegan athlete demonstrates that dedication and strategic eating are crucial for maintaining an elite fitness level and achieving greatness. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that with the right balance and mindset, food can be the fuel for sustained success.
For a deeper look into Kohli's fitness regimen, you can read more about his diet and workout secrets on the Hindustan Times website.
