Joanna James
Often considered a beach Mecca for the masses, the pristine island of Mauritius is also a foodie's dream come true. From savoury treats to sweet delights, here's a rundown of ten dishes every tourist must enjoy on a holiday in the island nation.
Considered a part of Creole cuisine, no trip to Mauritius would be complete without savouring this classic dish that goes with nearly everything. The tomato infused dish features chillies, garlic, onions, coriander and thyme and is a rich sauce that pairs well with seafood, chicken or beef, or even veggies.
Falling into the category of a Sino-Mauritian creation, the literal translation of Bol Renversé is 'Upside Down Bowl'. This rice meal is often served up with a chop suey like thick sauce that features a host of Chinese vegetables such as Bok Choi, carrots, and mushrooms. Shrimp and meat strips are also added on top of the dish, which sometimes also features a fried egg.
As a popular snack, Gateau Piment is widely available all across the island's many food stalls. Also identified as Gateau Dhal, this dish is made using dhal, green chillies, and spring onions. Sometimes called Chilli Cake, it is a great pick-me-up any time of the day
Another street food favourite, this is an Indian inspired dish that features a flatbread that features different fillings based on one's preferences. Most vendors will have several fillings on offer so diners can choose what fillings will go inside their roti.
Better known as Mauritian Dim Sum, this is another dish that is a fusion meal influenced by the Cantonese immigrants living in Mauritius. Made up of a number of meatball varieties named "en pow niuk", "saw mai" and "niuk yan", the dumpling is steamed and features either seafood or minced meat.
Those who love classic Indian Biriyani will not be disappointed with the Mauritian incarnation of this popular staple meal. As a dish that hails from the Indo-Islamic community in the country, Mauritian Biriyani also features basmati rice cooked in herbs and spices and topped off with chicken, seafood, or a meat item that's all cooked in a steel pot
Tourists based at The Residence Mauritius or any other rest will find local restaurants serving up this delicious fried rice that's also a popular street food dish in the country. Made according to Creole preparation methods, the best resorts in Mauritius offer diners their own take on this traditional dish, which is served with chilli paste and garlic sauce.
Noodle fans holidaying in Mauritius will dig in with pleasure when a plate of Mine Frite is placed in front of them. This egg noodle dish with fish sauce and dark soy sauce is no less appetising than a Chinese fried noodle dish.
As an Indian fusion dish, this dry curry is often composed of seafood or meat. Each slice of meat or fish is coated in a mixture of spices before being deep-fried and tossed into a dish with garlic and scallions.
Also called Seven Curries, this vegetable dish is a hearty combination of spinach, pumpkin, banana, butter beans and other ingredients.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
