Have you ever tried to imagine what it’s like to dine like royalty? Well, King Charles’ eating habits give us a fascinating glimpse into the culinary world of a monarch. While we may picture opulent banquets and lavish feasts, the reality of his daily diet is surprisingly modest and intriguing.
When the King graces formal events, he is ushered into grand dining halls and treated to extravagant multi-course meals brimming with pomp and ceremony. However, on an average day, the scene is quite different. Contrary to what we see on The Crown, there are whispers that Charles abstains from lunch altogether – not even a light bite. This revelation is startling, particularly in comparison to his late mother, the Queen, who was known to partake in four small meals a day.
The King’s crammed schedule seems to have led him to believe that lunch is a “luxury” he simply cannot afford. Furthermore, prior to his ascension to the throne, he was reportedly renowned for his relentless work ethic. Crowned the hardest-working royal in 2019, with a staggering 521 public engagements in a year, his day is packed from dawn till dusk.
So, what graces the King’s plate? It’s a far cry from the lavish spreads one might expect. His day commences with a simple breakfast of seasonal fruits, seeds, and a steaming cup of tea. For lunch, he opts for a stroll rather than a meal. It’s not until 5pm that he pauses for a proper tea, complete with sandwiches and a slice of fruit cake.
His diet appears to be predominantly plant-based. In an interview with the BBC, he revealed his practice of meat and fish-free days twice a week, as well as a dairy-free day. His preference for asparagus from his own garden has been depicted in The Crown, but it remains uncertain whether he truly enjoys this particular vegetable. He is also known to have a penchant for soft-boiled eggs, often incorporating them into his meals by mashing them into a side salad, creating a makeshift mayonnaise, although this has been disputed.
The King’s fondness for Darjeeling tea with honey and milk aligns with his commitment to organic products in harmony with his environmentalism. His reported favourite, wild mushroom risotto with organic lamb, typically features ingredients sourced from his estate.
It appears that there are a few things that the King does not fancy. For instance, there is a distinct absence of garlic and coffee at royal affairs, according to Queen Consort Camilla. Rumour has it that the King is not fond of chocolate, but he allegedly delights in warm biscuits with cheese after a meal, provided they are heated up.
In essence, although King Charles’ dining habits may not be as extravagant as we envision, they offer a captivating insight into the everyday life of a monarch. It’s evident that he favours a simple, organic, and health-conscious lifestyle, coupled with a deep-rooted sense of environmental responsibility. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, just remember – you’re dining just like a king!
