Latest news with #TheChediMuscat
Observer
07-03-2025
- General
- Observer
A culinary celebration of Ramadhan
During Ramadhan, the spirit of devotion, reflection and community is beautifully expressed through the sharing of meals. Executive Chef Mohamed al Okla of The Chedi Muscat has curated an exquisite Iftar spread, featuring traditional Omani flavours with a modern touch. Omani Shuwa prepared by Executive Chef Mohamed al Okla Omani Shuwa A signature Omani dish, Shuwa is a slow-cooked, spiced lamb delicacy, traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground to achieve its deep, aromatic flavour. Ingredients: For the meat: 2kg lamb (whole leg or shoulder) 50g garlic (minced) 30g ginger (grated) 50ml white vinegar 50ml vegetable oil For the spice marinade: 10g dried red chilies (crushed) 15g paprika 10g cumin powder 10g coriander powder 5g black pepper powder 5g cardamom powder 3g cloves powder 5g cinnamon powder 5g turmeric powder 2g nutmeg powder 5g dried lime (loomi) powder 20g salt 10g Omani Baharat spice mix (optional) For Wrapping & Cooking: Banana leaves or aluminum foil Baking paper Roasting pan Instructions: Prepare the marinade: Mix garlic, ginger, vinegar, oil and all spices into a thick paste. Marinate the lamb: Make deep cuts in the lamb, rub in the spice paste and let it marinate for at least 12 hours (preferably 24 hours) in the fridge. Wrap the lamb: Wrap the marinated lamb in banana leaves, then in baking paper and finally in aluminum foil. Cook the Shuwa (Oven Method): Preheat the oven to 120°C, place the wrapped lamb in a deep roasting tray and slow-cook for 6–8 hours until tender. Serve: Unwrap, shred and serve with mandi or saffron rice. Omani Paplou (Seafood Soup) Omani Paplou (Seafood Soup) A fragrant seafood soup infused with coconut and tamarind, Paplou is a Ramadhan favourite that pairs perfectly with warm bread or steamed rice. Ingredients: 300g fish (kingfish, snapper, or firm white fish, cubed) 200g shrimp (peeled and deveined) 150g calamari (sliced into rings) 150g onion (finely chopped) 20g garlic (minced) 20g ginger (grated) 200g tomatoes (chopped) 30g tomato paste 250ml coconut milk 1 litre fish stock (or water) 30g tamarind paste 10g coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish) 10g curry leaves 10g green chilies (slit in half) 5g turmeric powder 5g cumin powder 5g coriander powder 3g black pepper powder 8g salt 30ml vegetable oil or ghee 20ml lemon juice Instructions: Sauté the aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, ginger, curry leaves and green chilies until golden. Add tomatoes & spices: Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, turmeric, cumin, coriander, black pepper and salt. Cook until softened. Simmer the soup: Add tamarind paste, fish stock and coconut milk. Let simmer for 10 minutes. Cook the seafood: Add fish cubes, shrimp and calamari. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until fully cooked. Final touch: Stir in lemon juice and fresh coriander. Serve: Enjoy hot with bread or steamed rice. Harees with drizzle saffron-infused ghee Harees with saffron-infused ghee A cherished dish during Ramadhan, Harees is a creamy, porridge-like meal made with wheat and slow-cooked meat, enhanced with warm spices and rich ghee. Ingredients: Main Ingredients: 500g cracked wheat (harees wheat) 600g lamb or chicken (boneless, cut into chunks) 2 litres water 10g salt (adjust to taste) Flavouring & Garnish: 50g ghee (for richness) 3g cardamom powder 2g cinnamon powder 3g white pepper A pinch of saffron (optional) 50g fried onions (for garnish) Instructions: Soak & prep the wheat: Rinse and soak wheat for 3–4 hours (or overnight). Cook the meat & wheat: Add soaked wheat, meat and water to a large pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally. Blend & Enhance: Shred the meat and mix it back into the pot. Mash into a creamy consistency. Flavour & Serve: Stir in salt, cardamom, cinnamon, white pepper and ghee. Drizzle saffron-infused ghee and garnish with crispy shallots. Serve warm with dates or yogurt. Mohamed al Okla, as the Executive Chef at The Chedi Muscat since July 2022, leads with a philosophy that blends artistry and precision. With 60 per cent of his team comprising Omani talent, he is dedicated to nurturing local expertise while delivering world-class culinary experiences. Born in Syria with Turkish heritage, Mohamed's cooking is deeply influenced by the bold spices and rich flavours of the Middle East. A passionate advocate for sustainability, he emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques. Beyond his technical mastery, Mohamed believes food is about storytelling — bringing people together, honouring traditions and crafting unforgettable dining experiences. His commitment to culinary excellence continues to elevate Oman's gastronomic scene, making every meal at The Chedi Muscat a refined celebration of flavours and heritage. Mohamed's career spans prestigious hotels including Shangri-La Muscat, Conrad Hilton Dubai, Raffles Dubai and Sofitel Abu Dhabi. EOM
Times of Oman
05-03-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Surge in Iftar, Suhoor bookings as Ramadan spirit fills the air in Oman
Muscat: The holy month of Ramadan has ushered in a renewed enthusiasm for communal dining, with hotels and restaurants across Oman witnessing an unprecedented surge in bookings for Iftar and Suhoor meals. From luxury resorts to mid-range establishments, the demand for Ramadan dining experiences has exceeded expectations, driven by early reservations and a growing appetite for unique culinary offerings. The Chedi Muscat has reported a significant increase in bookings, particularly from corporate groups looking to host team Iftars. 'Bookings have been even better than usual,' said Karim Bizid, General Manager of The Chedi Muscat. 'People have decided to plan even more ahead. In the past two years, we saw very last-minute bookings, but this year, guests are securing their tables well in advance.' A similar trend has been observed at dusitD2 Naseem Resort in Jabal Akhdar, where both room sales and Iftar bookings have surpassed last year's numbers. General Manager Jagdeep Thakral attributes this to an increase in corporate travel and the resort's distinctive Bedouin-themed Ramadan experience. 'Our Bedouin concept, combined with live music, has been a major draw this year, attracting guests looking for something beyond the traditional buffet,' he said. Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah, marking 20 years of heartfelt hospitality, has established itself as a central hub for Ramadan festivities. This year, the resort has elevated its offerings with carefully curated Iftar and Suhoor experiences, including lavish buffets and an exclusive Suhoor setup at the SiO2 Beach Lounge, allowing guests to dine under the stars by the sea. 'Ramadan at Shangri-La has always been a favourite among Muscat residents. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we have introduced unique experiences like the 'Iftar To Go' box and special gift hampers for Ramadan and Eid,' said Philippe Kronberg, General Manager of Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah and Shangri-La Al Husn. Beyond Muscat, cities like Salalah, Sohar, and Sur have also embraced the Ramadan spirit, with restaurants and hotels rolling out special menus and atmospheric dining setups. Several venues have incorporated Arabic music and live performances, enhancing the overall experience and creating a festive ambiance. Social media platforms have also played a key role in amplifying Ramadan offerings. W Muscat has been actively promoting its Iftar experience, highlighting live grills and global flavours in an engaging Instagram reel. The surge in Iftar and Suhoor bookings reflects a collective eagerness to embrace the spiritual and communal aspects of Ramadan. With hospitality establishments across Oman offering diverse and elevated experiences, this year's Ramadan is shaping up to be one of the most vibrant in recent memory. Whether through traditional buffets, beachfront Suhoors, or intimate corporate gatherings, the joy of breaking fast together continues to define the essence of the holy month in Oman.
Trade Arabia
24-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Trade Arabia
Chedi Muscat offers Iftar with Earth Hour essence
The Chedi Muscat will welcome guests to experience a truly unique Layali Ramadan Iftar this year. The daily Layali Ramadan Iftar offers a rich and vibrant Arabic buffet under the stars, with an enticing variety of traditional dishes complemented by Ramadan juices. Guests will be immersed in the warm Omani hospitality while enjoying a festive dining experience, complete with the enchanting live music of an Omani Trio Band and Oud player, Chedi Muscat said. In a special nod to sustainability, The Chedi Muscat will host an exceptional Earth Hour Iftar on the evening of March 22, blending Omani hospitality with a shared sense of responsibility for the planet. This memorable occasion combines the sacred traditions of Ramadan with a deep commitment to environmental awareness. During the Earth Hour Iftar, The Chedi Muscat will transform its dining spaces into a sanctuary that reflects both the spiritual essence of Ramadan and the importance of sustainability. The specially curated Iftar menu will feature an exquisite selection of locally sourced, organic specialties, with a focus on plant-based dishes inspired by the flavours of Ramadan. Guests will savour vibrant Arabic salads, spiced lentils, wholesome vegetable stews, and refreshing organic mocktails — each dish thoughtfully crafted to highlight the importance of sustainability. A standout feature of the Earth Hour Iftar will be the live cooking stations, where traditional Omani and Arabic dishes are prepared to order. This approach not only ensures fresh, perfectly portioned meals but also reduces food waste, offering guests an interactive dining experience that reflects the artistry of Omani cuisine and the value of mindful consumption, a concept deeply embedded in Arabic culture. In recognition of Earth Hour, which will take place from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, The Chedi Muscat will dim its lights and reduce energy consumption to create an intimate, reflective atmosphere. This symbolic gesture reinforces the importance of preserving our planet, encouraging guests to reconnect with the natural world. One of the highlights of the evening will be a living wall, designed by The Chedi's engineering and gardening teams, illuminated using energy generated through a stationary bicycle equipped with a dynamo. Guests will have the opportunity to pedal and contribute directly to powering the lights that highlight the wall, embodying a collective effort to embrace sustainable energy.
Times of Oman
11-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Indulgent Valentine's Day escapes in Oman
MUSCAT: Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine's Day than with an unforgettable retreat designed just for two? Across Oman, luxury resorts and hotels are rolling out spectacular offers -think candlelit dinners under the stars, spa rituals for two, and dreamy overnight stays wrapped in romance. Whether you're planning an intimate escape in the mountains, a lavish beachfront dining experience, or a surprise staycation in the city, these exclusive Valentine's Day packages promise to make your celebration as special as your love story. Romance at new heights: Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar Perched high above the clouds, Hotel Indigo Jabal Akhdar offers couples a breathtaking escape with a selection of intimate experiences. For the ultimate in exclusivity, book a private dome dining experience (OMR 180 per couple), where a gourmet meal is served inside a transparent dome, offering stunning mountain views. Indulge in a floating breakfast, where the serene waters and picturesque surroundings set the mood for a romantic morning. Complete your getaway with couples' spa treatments designed to refresh and reconnect. Starry-eyed romance: Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Between 7–14 February 2025, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort invites couples to celebrate love with curated experiences set against dramatic canyon vistas. Snuggle up for an enchanting romantic cinema under the stars, where classic love stories unfold under a canopy of glittering skies, accompanied by gourmet bites and sparkling drinks. Dine in elegance with multiple choices: Al Baha's afternoon tea - a delicate spread of sweet and savoury delights. Bella Vista's four-course Italian dinner, complete with chocolates and roses. The Royal Edge Experience, a private six-course feast at the canyon's edge, featuring butler service and a heart-shaped cake. For the ultimate indulgence, extend your stay with an overnight luxury package, featuring a romantic dinner and breakfast at Diana's Point. Al Qalaa offers the opportunity to dine in a Middle Eastern fort on a refined five-course menu with grape pairings and live violin melodies. Seaside elegance: The Chedi Muscat For those looking for a blend of luxury and intimacy, The Chedi Muscat offers a selection of exquisite experiences. Afternoon Tea at The Lobby Lounge (1–14 February): A charming selection of handcrafted pastries and teas, best enjoyed overlooking the serene gardens. Dinner at The Long Pool (14 February): A sophisticated four-course Asian-inspired meal set to live music under the soft glow of lanterns. Private Beachside Dinner (14 February): A once-in-a-lifetime experience with a bespoke four-course meal, violin serenade, and candlelit ambiance by the sea. A romantic adventure: Dusit D2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar Set amidst the stunning landscapes of Jabal Akhdar, Dusit D2 Naseem Resort offers a dreamy Valentine's retreat for couples looking for both adventure and relaxation, starting at OMR 99 plus taxes per night, from 13-15 February. Enjoy a romantic dinner at Sky View Restaurant, beneath a starry sky for a truly romantic evening. For an added touch of indulgence, opt for a couples' spa experience, featuring signature massages and aromatherapy rituals designed to soothe and revitalise. If you and your partner crave a little adventure, take a guided nature walk, exploring hidden trails and breathtaking viewpoints before unwinding with a sunset picnic besides the thrill of unlimited access to Adventure Park, the only one in Oman. Make this Valentine's Day unforgettable with so many exclusive packages on offer, lovebirds are spoilt for choice this Valentine's season. Whether you prefer mountain serenity, beachfront luxury, or a cultural escape, Oman's top resorts have crafted experiences that promise to make February 14th a day to remember.
