Food is more than Padma Lakshmi’s nine-to-five.
The Emmy-nominated host of “Top Chef,” renowned cookbook author and creator of “Taste the Nation With Padma Lakshmi” (which returns to Hulu May 5 for its second season), happily takes her work home with her.
The India-born, New York City-bred star often shares the kitchen (and a fantastic sense of style) with her daughter, Krishna, but the 13-year-old has recently declared her culinary independence.
“She’s stopped cooking with me lately,” says Lakshmi, 52. “She says I’m too oppressive. I get it. It would be like if you’re learning to play tennis and your dad is Andre Agassi.”
But that doesn’t stop Lakshmi from hoping for breakfast in bed — “leisurely drinking copious amounts of tea while reading the newspaper” this Mother’s Day.
She’d also like to skate around the neighborhood with her daughter, maybe catch a movie or wander the aisles of a bookstore together, then end the day with dinner at one of her favorites, Il Posto Accanto in the East Village.
Here, the professional foodie shares with Alexa her ingredients for a flavorful life.
“These candles smell refreshing, not cloying, and they last a long time.”
“Geranium Rosa” candle, $74 at Diptyque ParisDiptyque Paris“These bags are elegant and so useful. They’re from a female-owned company, with an admirable ethos: ‘fewer, better things.’ ”
Leather travel case set, $128 at CuyanaCuyana“I first published this cookbook in 2006, and I feel it was ahead of its time, as ingredients from across the world are so much more accessible and appreciated today. It was reissued in 2021 and was actually named one of Apple’s Best Books of the Year!”
“Tangy Tart Hot & Sweet” cookbook by Padma Lakshmi, $18 at Hachette Book GroupHachette Book Group“I absolutely loved making Qabuli Palow (a spiced lamb and rice dish topped with sautéed carrots and raisins) with Chef Shamim Popal in the Afghan episode of ‘Taste the Nation.’ I hope viewers will see the incredible things immigrant communities do for this country — and are willing to sacrifice — to have the chance at a better life.”
Qabuli Palow, $28 at Lapis, 1847 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC Lapis“I discovered these when I lived in Alphabet City. They are an elegant way to taste as you go while building flavors in your cooking.”
Karma tasting spoons (set of four), $20 at AmazonKarma“Lassi is a type of drinkable yogurt. I loved this product so much that I contacted them about becoming an investor. It’s loaded with probiotics, is very low in sugar, high in protein and kids absolutely love it. I cannot keep it stocked in my house.”
Dah! lassi, $4.50 at Whole Foods“These are comfortable despite the height and go with anything — especially jeans or dresses.”
Prada Chelsea boots, $925 at Saks Fifth AvenuePrada“Great for when you want a little lip coverage and a natural sheen!”
Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in “Whole Lotta Honey,” $21 at UltaClinique“I love the wine list and the hospitality. It’s a very welcoming spot for Italian cuisine. It’s my Cheers!”
Il Posto Accanto, 190 E. Second St., NYC Il Posto Accnto“I’ve been making my own custom perfume blends out of essential oils for years, because most commercial brands give me a headache. They’re also great for adding to the bath or using for a massage.”
Lavender essential oil, $16.50 at Neal’s Yard RemediesNeal's Yard Remedies“They only make this brow pencil in three shades, and I actually rotate between them.”
Diorshow Brow Styler, $31 at DiorDiorPhotos by Dominic Valente, Brian Zak, Visko Hatfield, Getty Images and courtesy of the brands.
