Chef Katrina Karan Katrina Karan
Private Chef In San RafaelGet to know me better
Clean and kind chef who genuinely cares about my clients, I go above and beyond to create healthy yet delicious dishes that are bursting with flavors.
I'm a female chef hailing from a diverse background, with roots in both Guyana and Sri Lanka. My culinary journey is a fusion of these two rich culinary traditions, and I'm passionate about creating unique and flavorful dishes that reflect the cultural diversity and culinary heritage of both regions.
From an early age, the kitchen has been my sanctuary, and cooking has been my art. It is in this world of flavors, aromas, and textures that I have found my true calling. The ability to transform simple ingredients into exquisite dishes that evoke joy and satisfaction in others is both my greatest joy and my ultimate aspiration.
My culinary journey began humbly, experimenting with recipes in my family kitchen and watching cooking shows with rapt attention after I attended a culinary school in Nap ( Culinary Institute of America) , from there I worked my way around the bay ( at fine dining, upscale restaurants) - Over time, my passion evolved into a steadfast commitment to honing my skills and expanding my knowledge of diverse cuisines and cooking techniques.
Now I'm a full time personal/private chef.
Beyond the technical aspects of cooking, I firmly believe that a great chef is also a master storyteller. Through each dish I create, I aim to convey narratives of culture, tradition, and innovation. I find immense joy in presenting dishes that not only please the palate but also leave a lasting impression on diners, taking them on a culinary journey they will cherish.
More about me
For me, cooking is...
Cooking is a passion that saved my life, infusing every day with purpose and joy as I create delicious, heartfelt dishes that bring people together.
I learned to cook at...
My grandfather who has been a chef for 30+ years. Culinary school:CASA The Chef Apprentice SF. Restaurants: Himalayan Cuisine-La Mediterrane; SD: Guis
A cooking secret...
Clean as you go & bring out vibrant flavors using healthy, fresh ingredients, creating dishes that are both nutritious and delicious.
My menus
Crispy brussel sprouts: infused with garlic, chipotle aioli, topped with parmesan cheese black pepper
Bruschetta: toasted sourdough bread topped off with tomatoes,garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, apple balsamic, lemon
Classic caesar salad description: crisp romaine lettuce tossed with crunchy croutons and freshly grated parmesan cheese, all coated in a creamy caesar dressing made from mayonnaise, garlic, anchovies, and lemon juice. a timeless favorite with rich flavors
Italian Arugula Salad: Fresh arugula tossed with shaved Parmesan, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, finished with a hint of lemon and olive oil
Caprese salad: tomatoes: ounces fresh mozzarella sliced , fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar
Whipped Ricotta Dip: Creamy ricotta blended with honey, lemon zest, and a sprinkle of sea salt, topped with fresh herbs and olive oil drizzle
Italian Stuffed Mushrooms: large white mushrooms stuffed with a savory mixture of finely chopped mushroom stems, onion, Parsley, garlic, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and cream
Grilled octopus - octopus is marinated in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, then grilled until it’s slightly charred and tender. it’s often served with a side of salad or roasted vegetables and can be drizzled with a flavorful dressing or aioli
Fritto misto di mare – an italian seafood platter with lightly battered and fried calamari, shrimp, and white fish. serve with lemon wedges and a dipping sauce like aioli or marinara
Creamy corn risotto – arborio rice infused with sweet corn, parmesan, and a hint of fresh basil, finished with a drizzle of truffle oil
Pasta al pomodoro – a classic pasta with a fresh tomato sauce, basil, garlic, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a light and aromatic dish
Mushroom and truffle tagliatelle – tagliatelle tossed in a creamy mushroom sauce with truffle oil, garlic, and parsley for a luxurious, earthy flavor
Zuppa di Cozze: Mussels in tomato, white wine, garlic, pepper, and Italian spices
Branzino al forno – roasted mediterranean sea bass (branzino) seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple arugula salad
Sicilian-style grilled swordfish – swordfish steaks marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and capers, then grilled to perfection. often served with a tomato and olive relish
Herb-crusted salmon – salmon fillets , olive oil , breadcrumbs , parmesan cheese ,fresh parsley, fresh dill, lemon zest salt and pepper side of rice and sauteed mixed veggies infused with garlic herb butter
Tuscan New York Steak: Perfectly seared New York steak finished with a garlic rosemary butter, served with roasted cherry tomatoes and drizzled with a balsamic reduction for a rich Italian touch.( choose between arugula salad or garlic herb green beans.) also a side of mashed potatoes
Italian Filet Mignon: Premium Filet, garlic herb butter, vibrant chimichurri, mushroom risotto, buttered carrots
“giouvetsi” braised short-rib with orzo , ras el hanout, confit cheery tomatoes , greek mizithra cheese
Creamy Chicken Florentine: Chicken, garlic, spinach, cream, parmesan, butter noodles
Chicken Piccata With Lemon-Butter Pan Sauce: Crispy breaded chicken, lemon butter sauce, capers, on top of a creamy mashed potato puree
Olive oil cake description: moist and flavorful cake made with california olive oil and citrus zest. ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, olive oil, orange zest, lemon zest, baking powder, salt, yogurt
Chocolate-hazelnut crêpes description: crêpes filled with a rich chocolate-hazelnut spread and served with a side of whipped cream and toasted hazelnuts. presentation: fold the crêpes and drizzle with melted dark chocolate,
Cannoli: crispy pastry tubes filled with a sweet, creamy ricotta cheese mixture, often flavored with vanilla or citrus and studded with chocolate chips or candied fruit. They are typically dusted with powdered sugar
Strawberry/or vanilla bean panna cotta description: a silky and smooth panna cotta infused with vanilla bean, served with a raspberry coulis or fresh berries
Tiramisu: layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cheese, eggs, sugar, and cocoa powder. the mixture is chilled until set
Berry fruit tarts: sweet custard filled topped with assorted berries, garnished with a dust of powder sugar
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Caribbean Stuffed Mushrooms: includes bell peppers, shallots, black beans, topped with lime and cheese
Coconut shrimp: Coated in Breadcrumbs, coconut flakes served with a sweet and sour sauce. (Caribbean inspired)
Cucumber Salad Description: Refresh your palate with this crisp cucumber salad, featuring thinly sliced cucumbers infused with zesty lime and a touch of cracked black pepper( if you like spicy will add a fresh pepper) Light and invigorating, this salad i
Ahi Tuna Tartare: Fresh ahi tuna diced and mixed with avocado,shallots, bellpepper, and mayo, served with pita chips
Islands lover salad: red cabbage, bell pepper, onions, tomatoes marinated in cilantro lime sauce, topped with an Avocado dressing!
Caribbean Ceviche: Ingredients: fresh white fish (such as tilapia or snapper)(or pink shrimp) , diced mango, pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime, orange jalapeño pepper, Plantain chips
Caribbean Scallop Crudo: Delicate sea scallops served with a vibrant mix of ripe mango, crisp red bell pepper, red onion, and cucumber, all lightly spiced with jalapeño. Finished with a squeeze of fresh lime, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a refreshing, tropical twist
Chipotle Chicken: Stuffed Mini Peppers Sweet mini peppers filled with tender shredded chipotle chicken, black beans, and corn, all topped with melted cheese. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a flavorful, gluten-free bite-sized delight
Jerk Chicken Skewers with Mango Salsa: Spicy jerk-marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro. Paired with a vibrant, sweet mango salsa on the side for a perfect balance of heat and tropical flavor
Barbecue Shrimp Skewers Succulent jumbo shrimp skewered with vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions, all expertly grilled and brushed with a house-made barbecue sauce for a smoky, flavorful finish
Seared Scallops with Herb Butter Sauce Perfectly seared scallops in a Caribbean herb butter sauce with hints of cumin, garlic, and sea salt, served alongside a smooth mashed potato purée. A refined dish with subtle tropical flavors
Honey Glazed Salmon Succulent salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory blend of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, baked to perfection. Served with your choice of buttered carrots, Asian coleslaw, or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying and flavorful meal
Caribbean Spiced Lamb Chops: Description: Savor succulent lamb chops grilled to perfection and topped with a vibrant Caribbean chimichurri, infused with tropical herbs and spices. Accompanied by creamy garlic mashed potatoes and a medley of roasted veget
Caribbean Ribeye: Description: Caribbean spice & herbs infused ribeye topped with a caribbean flare chimichurri , with either (creamy mashed potato of sweet potato puree), garlic butter carrots. Comes with sweet plantains! Garnished with Charred lemon
Exotic Jerk Chicken Plate: Description: Tender jerk-marinated chicken thighs served on a bed of fragrant cilantro rice, accompanied by sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, topped with diced tomatoes and a refreshing avocado crema. Garnished with fresh lim
"Surf & Turf in the island" comes with lobster topped with garlic herb butter, New york Steak w/ Caribbean herbs pan seared then baked in the oven (to retain all the juices), fried plantains, Cilantro rice, Black beans, Avocado Crema, Micro Cilantros, re
Caribbean Banana Cake Description: A moist and flavorful banana cake infused with rich Caribbean spices, topped with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and garnished with caramelized banana slices. This delightful dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetn
Caribbean chocolate cake: Chocolate base cake, brazilian coco - used to make the creamy fudge topping) Topped off with strawberry puree and whipped cream
Dulce de leche cheesecake, graham cracker base, creamy rich cheesecake filling topped off with dulce de leche sauce and topped with whipped cream
Mango Sticky Rice Description: Sweet and creamy coconut sticky rice paired with fresh mango slices, topped with a drizzle of coconut milk. A traditional Asian dessert with a tropical twist
Tropical Fruit Tart Description: A buttery tart shell filled with a light pastry cream and topped with a colorful array of tropical fruits such as kiwi, mango, and pineapple. Glazed with apricot preserves and garnished with mint
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Grilled Pineapple and Shrimp Salad Description: Grilled shrimp and pineapple served over a bed of mixed greens with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette. Garnished with toasted coconut flakes and lime zest
Coconut shrimp: Coated in Breadcrumbs, coconut flakes served with a sweet and sour sauce. (Caribbean inspired)
Shrimp Ceviche: Fresh local shrimp, marinated in lime juice with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and serrano peppers. Served with tortilla chips
Crispy brussel sprouts infused with garlic, chipotle aioli, topped with parmesan cheese black pepper
Bruschetta: Toasted sourdough bread topped off with tomatoes,garlic, fresh basil, olive oil, apple balsamic, lemon
Greek Salad A vibrant mix of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, red onions, bell peppers, Kalamata olives, and tangy feta cheese, dressed with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of red wine vinegar topped with seared shrimps - This classic Greek salad is a
Barbecue Shrimp Skewers: Juicy shrimp marinated in a blend of smoked paprika and Cajun herbs, perfectly grilled alongside vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions. Glazed with a house-made barbecue sauce for a smoky, savory finish. A flavorful taste of summer in every bite
Crab Cakes : Golden-brown crab cakes made with lump crab meat, herbs, and spices, served with a zesty remoulade or creama sauce/puree topped with micro cilantro
Tuna Tartare or salmon Description: Diced fresh tuna mixed with avocado, soy sauce, and a hint of sesame oil, served with crispy wonton chips
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Description: Shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and Parmesan cheese, garnished with parsley
Sea Scallops with Lemon Butter Description: Pan-seared sea scallops served with a simple lemon butter sauce
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Crostini Description: Toasted baguette slices topped with cream cheese, smoked salmon, and a sprinkle of capers and fresh dill
Moroccan-Spiced Salmon Salmon fillets rubbed with a blend of Moroccan spices, including cumin, coriander, and paprika, then grilled or baked for a flavorful and aromatic main course
Garlic Butter Salmon Salmon fillets brushed with a rich garlic butter sauce, baked until tender and flavorful. Creamy mashed potatoes, garlic herb asparagus'
Creamy Tuscan Salmon Salmon fillets cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan cheese,
Honey Glazed Salmon A succulent and flavorful dish featuring salmon fillets glazed with a sweet and savory mixture of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, baked to perfection. buttered carrots, asian coleslaw or creamy mashed potatoes
Herb-Crusted Salmon Ingredients: salmon fillets , olive oil , breadcrumbs , Parmesan cheese ,fresh parsley, fresh dill, lemon zest Salt and pepper side of jasmine rice and sauteed mixed veggies infused with garlic herb butter
Olive Oil Cake Description: Moist and flavorful cake made with California olive oil and citrus zest. Ingredients: Flour, sugar, eggs, olive oil, orange zest, lemon zest, baking powder, salt, yogurt Instructions:
Strawberry Shortcake: A classic dessert featuring fluffy shortcakes topped with fresh California strawberries and whipped cream. Ingredients: Shortcakes: Flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, butter, milk Topping: Fresh strawberries, sugar, whipped cream
Key Lime Pie Description: A creamy key lime pie with a graham cracker crust, topped with whipped cream and lime zest
Chocolate-Hazelnut Crêpes Description: Crêpes filled with a rich chocolate-hazelnut spread and served with a side of whipped cream and toasted hazelnuts. Presentation: Fold the crêpes and drizzle with melted dark chocolate, adding a sprinkle of chopped to
Classic a fudge lover cake, chocolate base, coco fudge icing, dash of whipped cream, topped with strawberries
Strawberry Cheesecake: A creamy, velvety cheesecake layered on a buttery graham cracker crust, topped with luscious strawberry compote and finished with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The perfect balance of rich and refreshing
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta Description: A silky and smooth panna cotta infused with vanilla bean, served with a raspberry coulis or fresh berries
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Lobster Bisque: A rich, creamy soup made with lobster stock, cream, and brandy, garnished with chunks of lobster meat and a dollop of crème fraîche
Oysters with Champagne-Tarragon Mignonette
French Stuffed Mushrooms (Champignons Farcis): large white mushrooms stuffed with a savory mixture of finely chopped mushroom stems, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, Gruyère cheese, fresh herbs, and cream
Salade de Chèvre Chaud: This salad features rounds of warm goat cheese served on slices of baguette, atop a bed of mixed greens, often including arugula. dressed with a light vinaigrette made of olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard,
Rillette de Homard et Crabe- Shredded lobster, lemon juice, creme fraiche on top of a crostini
Soupe à l'Oignon (French Onion Soup): A classic French soup made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a slice of baguette and melted Gruyère cheese
Moules Marinières: A bowl or saucepan of mussels cooked in white wine with shallots and parsley. Served with bread
Steak Tartare or / Tuna Tartare Description: Finely chopped raw (tuna or NYsteak )mixed with herbs, avocado, and a light dressing, served with crostini. Presentation: Shaped into a neat mound, topped with microgreens, and surrounded by crisp crostini for
Tartare de Saumon Fresh salmon tartare mixed with capers, red onions, dill, and a touch of lemon juice, served with toast points or crackers
Coquilles Saint-Jacques: The French refer to sea scallops as coquilles Saint-Jacques (in English: St. James shells) and often bake them in the shells, swimming in a Gruyère cheese and cream sauce
Poulpe à la Provençale A traditional Provençal dish where octopus is cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, olives, and herbs such as thyme and rosemary. The slow-cooked preparation allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory
Escargots de Bourgogne Snails cooked in garlic, parsley, and butter, served in their shells
Braised Oxtail with Risotto Description: Slow-braised oxtail in a rich, spiced sauce served over a creamy risotto. Accompanied by charred Brussels sprouts and glazed baby carrots. Garnished with fresh thyme and a hint of scotch bonnet pepper
Filet Mignon with Béarnaise Sauce Description: Tender filet mignon steak served with a classic Béarnaise sauce made from clarified butter, egg yolks, and herbs. Presentation: Plated with a side of roasted vegetables and purée (mashed potatoes)
Coq au Vin: Chicken braised in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and bacon, served with mashed potato puree, butter carrots
Herb-Crusted Lamb: Tender lamb encrusted with a blend of fresh herbs and garlic, roasted to perfection, and served with a rich rosemary. Accompanied by a side of roasted fingerling potatoes and sautéed seasonal vegetables,
Côte de Boeuf : bone-in rib steak, grilled/ skillet and served with chimichurri & garlic compound butters. It’s a hearty and flavorful cut of meat, perfect for sharing
Bouillabaisse: A traditional Provençal fish stew made with various types of seafood, tomatoes, onions, and herbs. Served with a side of rouille sauce and crusty bread
Crème Brûlée: Rich custard with a caramelized sugar crust topped with berries
Tarte Tatin: Description: An upside-down caramelized apple tart with a buttery pastry crust. The apples are cooked in sugar and butter before being topped with the pastry and baked until golden
Éclairs: Description: Light and airy choux pastry filled with rich pastry cream and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze
Mille-Feuille Description: layers of puff pastry filled with pastry cream and topped with a thin layer of icing or fondant
Mousse au chocolat: Fluffy / luscious chocolate mousse, chocolate sauce, topped with berries and powder sugar
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California Avocado Bruschetta: Toasted sourdough topped with smashed local avocados, cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, balsamic glaze, and sea salt
Grilled Local Vegetable Salad: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and corn, tossed with arugula, quinoa, feta cheese, and a citrus dressing
Cucumber salad: Made with local ingredients: sliced cucumbers, pickled red onions, lemon juice, black pepper , sea salt. (Caribbean inspired)
Local Guacamole, local red roasted salsa ( made with all local ingredients) side of crispy chips
Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli: Local artichokes grilled and served with a tangy lemon aioli for dipping. Local Ingredients: Artichokes, lemons
San Diego Farmers' Market Salad: Mixed greens with local heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and carrots, topped with crumbled cheese and a lemon-herb vinaigrette
Baja Fish Tacos: Fresh local fished, battered, then fried, topped with coleslaw, lime, sea salt, cilantro crema
Baja-Style Shrimp Ceviche: Fresh local shrimp, marinated in lime juice with diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, avocado, and serrano peppers. Served with tortilla chips
Pacific Ocean Fish Tacos: Grilled local fish (such as halibut or mahi-mahi), served on corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado crema, and a squeeze of lime
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: Free-range chicken marinated with local herbs and lemon, roasted to perfection. Served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans
Local salmon, Butter garlic herbs, side of seasonal roasted veggies, Brown rice. ( or any other side )
San Diego Grass-Fed Ribeye Steak: A succulent, grass-fed ribeye steak sourced from local San Diego farms, grilled to perfection and served with a side of roasted garlic mashed potatoes, jasmine rice(gf rice) and seasonal grilled vegetables
San Diego Surf and Turf: A combination of a grilled local grass-fed beef filet and a fresh lobster tail, served with garlic butter, roasted fingerling potatoes, and steamed broccolini
Fruits tarts: silky pastry cream, topped with an assortment of vibrant seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries
High-Protein Fruit Parfait: Ingredients: Greek yogurt Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) Granola Honey or agave syrup
Strawberry Tres Leches Cake A light sponge cake (gluten free) soaked in a mixture of three milks (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream), topped with whipped cream and fresh berries. Garnished with a dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of dulce d
Caribbean chocolate cake: Chocolate base cake, brazilian coco - ud to make the creamy fudge topping) Topped off with strawberry puree and whipped cream
Strawberry shortcake, vanilla base, whipped cream, local strawberries from the farmers market
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