RAMADAN spreads at hotels typically feature traditional Malay dishes but a Putrajaya establishment is spicing things up.
The Selera Dua Tradisi buffet at Makan Kitchen, Double Tree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside is offering Malay and Chinese-Muslim dishes under one roof.
Hotel commercial director Nickson Yoong said the spread, curated by executive chef Faizal Ghani, reflected Malaysia’s multicultural spirit.
“We want to offer something different this year while still staying true to the Ramadan tradition in our country,” he said.
The rice selections set the tone beautifully.
Tender, bite-sized beef tucked into the rice gives Nasi Daging Kerisik Utara a deep, smoky richness in every spoonful.
Chinese-style Potato Rice is mellow and comforting, with fluffy grains and tender potatoes soaking up savoury flavours.
Highlights of the main courses are two lamb dishes – Kambing Perapan Mongolia with its caramelised glaze and sweetness, and Kambing Masak Merah offering a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy.
Bursting with flavour is the Kerabu Daging Salai Nanas, a refreshing mix of tangy pineapple and wood-fired beef.
For seafood lovers, crisp edges and gentle seasoning make Ikan Sardin Goreng feel home-styled, while Siakap Bakar presents firm, moist fillets with subtle herbal notes.
Not to be missed is Ikan Pari Bakar – aromatic stingray that carries a hint of char.
Another house favourite is the Asam Pedas Salmon with the buttery fish enriching the sweet-sour-spicy soup.
Rendang Kupang Utara delights mussel lovers with its creamy, intensely spiced coconut gravy.
Then there’s Siput Sedut Masak Lemak Labu with pumpkin lending natural sweetness to create a warm, velvety .
Those seeking crunch will enjoy Udang Goreng Gajus – the cashew nuts providing contrast to the tender prawns.
The Chinese-Muslim section highlights an intriguing spread, starting with Yang Rhou Chuan (lamb with spiced cumin).
Delivering smoky aroma and cumin warmth, the skewered lamb brings Uyghur culinary influences to the table.
Meanwhile, the Da Pan Ji (Uyghur-style fried noodles with poached chicken) is generously seasoned, featuring springy noodles and delicate chicken tossed in aromatic spices.
Those craving bolder dishes should try the Crab in Kam Heong Sauce for its rich, savoury heat.
For dessert, a selection inspired by the King of Fruits await.
Top of the list is Durian Cheese Cake with dense creaminess that offers unmistakable tropical flavours, while Onde-Onde Durian has a gentler appeal, featuring soft bursts of gula melaka syrup within a glutinous rice ball.
Golden and crisp, the Cucur Durian carries its sweet scent to the table while the Durian Egg Tarts unveils creamy custard wrapped in delicate pastry.
Equally appetising, Durian Tiramisu blends notes of coffee with a rich durian taste for a more playful twist, while the Durian Panna Cotta is silky and lightly sweetened.
Other treats include a variety of traditional kuih and Bubur Pulut Hitam.
This dining experience is available until March 19, priced at RM208nett (adult) and RM104nett (child).
MAKAN KITCHEN,
DoubleTree by Hilton Putrajaya Lakeside,
Jalan P5/5, Presint 5, Putrajaya. (Tel: 03-8890 0000.)
Business hours: 6.30am to 10.30pm, daily.
This is the writer’s personal observation and is not an endorsement by StarMetro.
Gallery
Those seeking crunch will enjoy Udang Goreng Gajus — its hard cashews a stark contrast to the tender prawns. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
Chinese Style Potato Rice has a mellow character, with fluffy grains and soft potatoes working together to absorb savoury notes. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
A splendid selection of desserts inspired by the King of Fruits awaits. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
Kambing Perapan Mongolia impresses with its caramelised glaze, while Kambing Masak Merah offers balanced flavours.
