Sourcing Spices from Their True Origins

At our hillside homestay in Uttarakhand, every meal begins long before it reaches the plate. It starts in the spice plantations of Kerala and the coffee estates of Karnataka—regions renowned for producing some of the world’s finest ingredients. We take great pride in sourcing directly from these origins to bring authentic, rich flavors to our guests’ dining experience.

From the lush greenery of Kerala, we procure aromatic treasures like mace, nutmeg, cardamom, and bold black pepper. These spices, sun-dried and carefully packed at their source, carry the essence of the tropical climate and fertile soil they grow in. Each one plays a distinct role in our kitchen, elevating the depth and character of every dish we prepare.

Further south, in the hills of Karnataka, we source smooth, full-bodied Arabica coffee that we use offer a truly satisfying cup. Alongside the coffee, we bring in premium-quality cashews—plump, sweet, and perfect for cooking, and vanilla beans for those delicious sweets.

These exceptional ingredients are complemented by the herbs and produce grown on our own land. We cultivate a wide range of culinary herbs and seasonal vegetables, and also incorporate local specialties like jakhiya, coriander, turmeric, garlic, and onions from our farm and from the village.

Our approach is simple: use the best of what nature offers, from wherever it grows best. By honoring the origins of each spice and ingredient, we’re able to serve food that’s not just delicious but rooted in authenticity and care. It’s a farm-to-plate experience that starts with a deep respect for the land—whether it’s here in the hills or hundreds of miles away.

We believe that quality always outweighs quantity—especially when it comes to spices. By sourcing high-grade spices like cardamom, mace, nutmeg, black pepper, etc. from their native regions, we’re able to use smaller amounts without compromising on flavor. These potent, pure ingredients bring depth and aroma with just a pinch, unlike lower-quality alternatives that require heavy use. This thoughtful approach not only enhances the taste of our food but also helps us reduce our overall spice consumption. As a result, even though we source some ingredients from distant regions, our carbon footprint remains low—proof that mindful choices can make a meaningful difference.