Interview: Vikas Khanna on season 2 of Kitchen, Khanna  & Konversations and his fitness routine

After a successful first season with more than 45 million views, Quaker India’s Kitchen, Khanna  & Konversations is back this year with Michelin-starred Chef Vikas Khanna rustling up delicious recipes using oats. 

The series features the 47-year-old chef sharing space with young stars including Vicky Kaushal, Bhumi Pednekar and Tamil actress, Raiza Wilson, as together they cook nutritious, convenient and unique recipes that are perfect for fitness enthusiasts. Expect fruity smoothie, granola bars and a contemporary version of the tasty Nan Khatai, among others — all cooked in Chef Khanna’s inimitable style.

We catch up with the Amritsar-born chef about innovating with oats and his journey as a host. Excerpts: 

Tell us about your experience of hosting the show. 
I really enjoyed it because we have an interesting format — a talk show with cooking. These are the people who inspire us with their lifestyle and what they have achieved. At the same time, we are able to show just how versatile oats is, and how easily you can add it to any dish as a whole grain that is also rich in protein and fibre.

What is your favourite dish made of oats?
I love experimenting with grains and making desserts with them. One can make delicious cobbler with oats. It’s one of my favourite dishes. I experimented with it many years ago. We mixed it up with some warm milk and it was kheer for us. It was amazing.

Oats are often looked at as a rather boring ingredient. How do you think can it be cooked to make it seem more appealing? 
I think oats are on very neutral ground. It’s like maida and atta. This ingredient balances things out and if you have to make it interesting, you can add flavours to it. It is so versatile, you can do anything that you want. 

How do you stay healthy and stick to a fitness and diet routine, while travelling?
Due to travel and international time zones, I have been careful about not eating too late. I am disciplined enough that I don’t drink or smoke. It’s a very conscious decision. I have to work through the night. I think people overestimate the power of eating healthy. It’s not just about that. It’s about a healthy lifestyle. Diet is the key but other things balance it out. 

What are some of the must-try recipes with oats?
Try to substitute 1/4th of the flour with oats, while making paranthas. Also, next time you make kheer, add oats in it. I love them!

Streaming now on Hotstar.