Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has announced the launch of Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, the debut cookbook by Executive Chef Harinath (Hari) Govindaraj. Set for release in October 2026, the beautifully curated coffee-table book celebrates Chef Hari’s 20-year culinary journey at the award-winning resort while showcasing his passion for sustainable, plant-based cuisine.
Published by St James’s House, the cookbook will be available for purchase through the Gili Lankanfushi Maldives website and at the resort, with pre-orders opening soon.
Bringing the Flavors of Gili Home
More than just a collection of recipes, Plant to Plate reflects Chef Hari’s philosophy of mindful cooking, encouraging readers to embrace seasonal ingredients, fresh herbs, and wholesome meals inspired by nature.
The cookbook features more than 60 vegan recipes, covering everything from breakfasts and starters to soups, salads, main courses, desserts, and signature beverages. Each dish is designed to be approachable, nutritious, and easy to recreate at home.
Among the highlights are:
- Rainbow Root Ceviche
- Gili Garden Green Gazpacho
- Teriyaki Tofu Steak with Coriander Sticky Rice
- Pan-Seared Radish Scallops
- Roasted Green Cauliflower with Zesty Couscous
- Caramel Pistachio Silk Cheesecake
The collection also includes treasured family recipes inspired by Chef Hari’s South Indian heritage, blending traditional flavors with contemporary plant-based techniques.
Celebrating 20 Years of Culinary Excellence
Chef Hari has been an integral part of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives for the past two decades, helping shape the resort’s distinctive culinary identity.
Originally from southern India, his passion for cooking began at a young age and has evolved into a wellness-focused approach centered on sustainability, locally grown produce, and creative vegan cuisine.
Today, he oversees the resort’s flourishing organic garden, where herbs, fruits, and vegetables are cultivated for use across Gili Lankanfushi’s restaurants, ensuring fresh ingredients are always at the heart of every dish.
Redefining Plant-Based Cuisine
Throughout Plant to Plate, Chef Hari challenges traditional perceptions of vegan cooking by transforming everyday ingredients into imaginative culinary creations.
From radishes prepared to resemble scallops to tofu elevated into flavorful gourmet dishes, the cookbook demonstrates that plant-based cuisine can be every bit as indulgent, creative, and satisfying as conventional fine dining.
“Plant to Plate is about making beautiful, wholesome food accessible to everyone,” says Chef Hari. “The recipes are designed to be practical, flexible, and easy to recreate at home using fresh, seasonal ingredients.”
A Beautiful Culinary Keepsake
Featuring stunning photography by acclaimed photographer Mel Yates and written by international broadcaster and author Katie Nicholl, the book pairs breathtaking imagery of island life with inspiring recipes that capture the essence of Gili Lankanfushi.
Whether displayed as a coffee-table centerpiece or used in the kitchen, Plant to Plate offers readers an opportunity to relive the flavors, beauty, and wellness philosophy of one of the Maldives’ most celebrated luxury resorts.
Adding a meaningful charitable element, the cookbook will retail for USD 100, with 25% of the profits donated to the Cancer Society of Maldives (CSM), supporting important community initiatives while celebrating sustainable gastronomy.
Experience Gili Lankanfushi with Lets Go Maldives
From award-winning dining and world-class wellness to sustainable luxury and unforgettable island experiences, Gili Lankanfushi Maldives continues to set the benchmark for eco-conscious hospitality in the Maldives.
Lets Go Maldives, your trusted Maldives travel specialist since 2005, can help you plan a tailor-made escape to this exceptional private island sanctuary.
Contact Lets Go Maldives today to book your stay at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives and experience the inspiring culinary creations of Chef Hari while discovering one of the Maldives’ most iconic luxury resorts.
