Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Gampola, Sri Lanka, Mount Havana offers not just a luxurious retreat but also a culinary journey that celebrates the island’s rich gastronomic heritage. Mount Havana serves a selection of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine that is expertly cooked to provide an authentic taste of the region. Here, we look at five must-try meals that exemplify Mount Havana’s culinary prowess.
Sri Lankan Rice and Curry
Rice and curry, a staple of Sri Lankan cuisine, provides a colourful and delicious dining experience with a variety of curries served alongside perfectly cooked rice. Mount Havana elevates this traditional lunch with an outstanding range of curries, each with its own distinct flavours and fragrances. The menu offers a variety of curries, including chicken, fish, lentils, beetroot, aubergine and jackfruit, offering a vivid and delicious experience.
These delicious curries are served with steamed white or red rice and a variety of side dishes, including pol sambol (coconut relish), seeni sambol (caramelised onion relish), and papadams (crispy crackers). The variety of curries changes daily, ensuring a delightful surprise with each visit.
Milk Rice and Imbul Kiri Bath
Milk rice (kiribath), a popular morning dish in Sri Lanka, is a simple but tasty preparation that involves boiling rice in coconut milk until it reaches a creamy consistency. It is frequently sliced into diamond shapes and served with spicy sambols or curries.
Mount Havana also serves Imbul Kiri Bath, a delicious milk rice but this variant includes a coconut stuffing, which fills the rice with a sweet coconut mixture before being cooked in coconut milk. This meal is delicious and soothing at the same time, thanks to the combination of creamy rice and sweet, fragrant filling.
Hoppers and Egg Hoppers
Hoppers, also known as appa, are bowl-shaped appa prepared with a fermented batter of rice flour and coconut milk. They have a crisp, lacy exterior and a soft, spongy centre, which makes them ideal for scooping up curries and sambol. At Mount Havana, you can choose between plain hoppers and the popular egg hoppers, which have an entire egg baked in the centre. Egg hoppers are traditionally served with a dollop of lunu miris, spicy onion and chilli relish, and a side of coconut sambol.
String Hoppers (Idiyappam)
String hoppers, or idiyappam, are delicate nests of steamed rice noodles that are a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine. These are frequently served with a variety of curries and sambols, making them a versatile and popular option for breakfast or dinner. At Mount Havana, string hoppers are served with a fragrant coconut milk gravy, chicken or fish curry, and a variety of side dishes such as pol sambol and dhal curry. The string hoppers’ soft, delicate texture complements the rich and spicy curries, resulting in a balanced taste.
Yellow Rice (Kaha Bath)
Yellow rice, also known as kaha bath. The rice is cooked with turmeric, coconut milk, and a variety of spices, including cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon, giving it a beautiful yellow colour and a rich, aromatic flavour. Yellow rice at Mount Havana is usually served with a variety of side dishes, such as fried chicken, fish cutlets, and vegetable curries. The fragrant rice, combined with the various flavours of the accompaniments, results in a wonderful and enjoyable meal.
The Role of Freshly Picked Ingredients
What distinguishes Mount Havana’s culinary experience is the use of freshly harvested products from local gardens. The freshness of these ingredients not only accentuates the taste but also ensures that each dish is nutrient-rich. The farm-to-table philosophy is key to the culinary traditions of Mount Havana, from the spices that give the curries depth to the freshness of the vegetables and herbs.
The villa provides personalised dining experiences, including a bespoke menu designed by brilliant chefs. Whether it’s a romantic meal for two or a holiday feast with family and friends, dining beneath the stars amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Knuckles Mountain Range is an unforgettable experience.
The menu can be tailored to your preferences, with a combination of traditional Sri Lankan meals and international cuisine. The combination of exquisite cuisine, top-notch service, and a stunning setting makes for an unforgettable experience.
