What Vladimir Putin likes to eat: Inside the Russian President’s food preferences ahead of his India visit

Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attend a concert prior to an informal dinner on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan on October 22, 2024. (Photo by Alexander Kryazhev / Photo host brics-russia2024.ru / AFP)

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4 and 5, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. While the trip is expected to focus on defence, energy and strategic ties, there is also growing curiosity about a more personal side of the Russian leader. Many people want to know what Putin likes to eat and what his daily meals look like.

Putin is known for his preference for simple and traditional food. His breakfast usually includes porridge or cottage cheese, known in Russia as tvorog, often mixed with honey. He is also believed to have raw quail eggs in the morning along with freshly made juice. These choices reflect his interest in healthy and uncomplicated meals.

When it comes to protein, Putin often chooses fish. Smoked sturgeon served with lemon and butter is one of his favourites. He also enjoys lamb, a food that has connections to his childhood and family traditions. His overall diet avoids heavy or sugary dishes. He is not drawn to desserts and rarely eats pastries or cakes. Instead, he prefers vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers, along with simple salads that fit into a balanced routine.

Putin is also said to drink kefir, a fermented dairy beverage that is popular in Russia. On rare occasions, he enjoys ice cream. Pistachio ice cream is believed to be among the flavours he likes the most.

During formal dinners or official gatherings, his menu may include Russian favourites such as fish soup, smoked fish or plates of assorted meats and sausages. These dishes align with his public image of discipline and simplicity.

As Putin arrives in India for an important diplomatic visit, most attention will be on the discussions and agreements that shape global politics. Yet his food habits offer a small window into his daily life. They reveal a leader who leans toward moderation and traditional tastes rather than extravagance. In moments where world leaders often seem distant, even simple details about what they enjoy eating can add a human touch to a high profile visit.