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Plant-based options for the health conscious

Tag：Malaysians healthier food choices vegetarian 2022-04-19 17:04

AFTER almost two years of lockdowns and movement restrictions, Malaysians are embracing a simpler way of living and making healthier food choices.

With this in mind, Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur executive sous chef Budiman Bistari Mohamed decided to include plant-based dishes at Latest Recipe’s “Jemput Santap” Ramadan buffet.

“We have a responsibility to provide the best and healthiest options, especially when many guests prefer to go green, eat more local produce and reduce their meat intake.

“It’s a lifestyle change that we cannot ignore,” Budiman said.

The chef and his team worked for months to craft more vegetarian and plant-based dishes.

“We still have meat dishes, but have incorporated vegetables into every section by mixing and matching both meat and vegetables with other options like beans, lentils, roots, salads and other plant-based ingredients.

“The changes are proving to be very popular.

“We also take pride in our spices and curries, which are made in-house,” said Budiman, adding that he tried to stay away from ready-made mixes as much as possible.

The buffet boasts over 200 dishes, with seven rotational menus.

If the number seems daunting, fret not as the chef has some recommendations.

The roasted prawn noodles are a fusion of cooking styles from the East and West.

It incorporates local spices and ingredients using lots of greens.

The brothy goodness was a good starter that warmed up our tummies for the next dish.

If you are not sure where to start, just look out for the live food station with the longest queue.

Chances are, it would be the pasta station helmed by executive chef Antoine Rodriguez.

The most fun of all the stations, it was a hive of activity as the chefs invited diners to choose what they like, from pasta to sauces and additional ingredients.

“You pick whatever you want and we’ll toss them together.

“There is no right or wrong here. You can add extra garlic, chillies, basil, olive oil,” said Rodriguez.

Other highlights include local dishes such as rendang, tandoori, serunding and kerabu.

Wash it all down with a steaming cup of teh tarik and durian cake, which was recommended by more than one person.

The verdict – divine!

Jemput Santap at Latest Recipe is available until May 7, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Priced at RM188 (adult) and RM94 (child).

LATEST RECIPE, Level 5, Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur, 2, Jalan Stesen Sentral, Kuala Lumpur. (Tel: 03-2263 7434) Business hours: 6am-midnight, daily. Pork-free.

This is the writer’s observation and not an endorsement by StarMetro.

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