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During the Holy Month of Ramadan, some people fasting tend to melt away the pounds as well as get rid of all the horrible toxins accumulated by months of consuming junk food and sugar.
Unfortunately, I am not one of those people and that’s probably because my mama, Hana, usually dishes out my favourite Palestinian-Jordanian goodies that I simply can’t resist. I am guilty of overindulging.
This Ramadan I have been looking for healthier options of traditional fare and after breaking my fast at Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s La Mosaique restaurant I believe I have found the solution.
The spacious and elegantly designed 24-hour dining venue, better known for its tasty Friday brunches and Thursday seafood and its Wednesday steak nights has always been a favourite of mine and my husband, Sam … but now I can add Iftar to the list of culinary experiences.
Praise must be heaped on the kitchen team and, in particular, Sous Chef Jaffar Il Asfoor who has cooked up delicious Arabic delights with a healthy holy month twist.
Chef Jaffar, the 34-year-old Bahraini chef who specialises in this style of cuisine, said: “This year my aim and focus is to serve our diners healthier, better tasting food. We are reducing the fat in our dishes and using the best quality ingredients and meats.
“I want everyone to have an enjoyable iftar and experience at La Mosaique and, most important of all, to feel at home.”
And that is exactly how Sam and I felt from the moment we stepped into the restaurant. The venue looked beautiful with its traditional décor to fit the Ramadan theme. Little lanterns and baskets full of dates were on every table. Embroidered and Arabian fabrics were used as table runners for the buffet.
A creamy laham (meat) soup started off our culinary adventure which was flavourful and tasty. While usually I skip the salad, there was a colourful sushi assortment with my name on it as well as zesty vine leaves.
Another delight was the variety of cheese choices. Aside from plain brie and cheddar, I added a cheese samosa to my plate along with a meat pastry. Meanwhile, Sam filled up on healthy greens, samosas and his favourite corn.
The mains included a stunning steamed vegetable medley of broccoli, carrots and zucchini, paprika potatoes, plus a fish fillet, beef steaks, prawn curry and two of my favourite local dishes, Thareed and Laham Ghouzi.
The Thareed, made from pieces of bread in a broth, was divine – a heart-warming and pure comfort dish that should not be passed up.
The Ghouzi was tasty too with its tiny raisins offering bites of sweetness to the tender lamb. I spotted falafels, kebabs and grills as well but it was either that or desserts … and desserts won.
The Umm Ali was delicious. A plate of pineapples and other fruits also made its way to our table along with a slice of chocolate cake and a vanilla profiterole.
If I keep up this healthier option maybe this year I’ll have a shot at maintaining my weight. Also, there’s the feel good factor too with the hotel donating 500fils to good causes for every diner booked.
There is also the chance to win daily and weekly rewards such as restaurant vouchers, spa treatments, electronic goods and even hotel stays. But best of all, guests could win a fantastic family getaway to Dubai! This is for two adults and two children, inclusive of flights, accommodation at the InterContinental Dubai Marina with complimentary breakfast and tickets for the whole family to Dubai Parks & Resorts.
Ghabga gatherings are proving popular too and are being hosted in its Conference Centre, complete with a traditional Bahrain village ambience with specialised menus. Corporate events can also be staged for guests ranging from 30 up to 1,000 with private accommodation available.
For more information, call 17531122.
