Joanna James
Mauritius, a tropical paradise west of Africa, is home to an immensely diverse culinary scene. Influenced by African, Indian, Chinese, and European flavours, Mauritian cuisine is a blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and bold combinations. Beyond the stunning beaches and natural wonders, a true Mauritian adventure awaits your taste buds. Explore the top restaurants in Mauritius and try these 6 essential dishes, including snacks and drinks, on your Mauritian vacation.
Begin your culinary adventure with a spice explosion! Gateaux piments are savoury fritters made with mashed yellow split peas, onions, spices, and of course, chillies. Deep-fried till coated in gold, these bite-sized delights offer a delightful contrast of textures – crispy on the outside and soft and flavorful inside. The chillies provide a pleasant kick, balanced by the subtle sweetness of the peas. Similar to an Indian Vadai, Gateaux piments are typically enjoyed as a snack, often served with chutney or a dollop of chilli sauce. They're perfect for grabbing on the go from street vendors or savouring at a local restaurant.
Rougaille, a quintessential Mauritian dish, translates to "redness" in reference to its vibrant tomato base. This slow-cooked Creole concoction features tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a generous amount of fresh thyme, simmered to create a rich and flavorful sauce. Spicy variations incorporate chillies for an additional kick. Rougaille is incredibly versatile, often served as a standalone dish with rice, used as a base for curries, or even enjoyed as a dipping sauce for samosas or fritters. Visit The Plantation, located at The Residence Mauritius by Cenizaro, to sample the rich flavours of this sauce on a helping of shrimp, or other Creole staples.
Venture into the world of Mauritian-Chinese cuisine with Boulettes, the Mauritian take on dim sum. These steamed dumplings come in a variety of fillings - popular options include minced chicken or fish seasoned with ginger, garlic, and a hint of chilli, or vegetarian versions filled with a delectable mix of local vegetables and spices. The delicate, steamed dough pockets are typically served with a selection of dipping sauces, allowing you to customize your spice level and explore different flavour profiles.
No exploration of Mauritian cuisine is complete without indulging in a fragrant curry. Unlike its Indian counterpart, Mauritian curries tend to be lighter, with a focus on fresh local ingredients and a unique blend of spices. Common bases include tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and turmeric, creating a vibrant yellow hue. Poultry, fish, lamb or even vegetables can be simmered to perfection in this aromatic broth, resulting in the perfect vessel for spooning over fluffy white rice or devouring with a side of Mauritian flatbread.
Mauritian cuisine loves sweet and savoury combinations, and pineapple with chilli salt is a testament to this culinary philosophy. Fresh pineapple chunks are sprinkled with a special blend of salt infused with chillies. The sweet and juicy pineapple provides a refreshing contrast to the salty and spicy kick, creating an explosion of flavour in your mouth. This simple yet delightful treat is a popular beach snack and a fun way to cleanse your palate between courses.
End your Mauritian culinary adventure on a high note with a cup of vanilla tea. Mauritius is renowned for its vanilla production, and incorporating this fragrant bean into a soothing cup of tea is the perfect way to experience its unique flavour. Locally grown vanilla pods are steeped in hot water, releasing their intoxicating aroma and subtle sweetness. Milk and sugar can be added to customize the taste, but many enjoy the purity of the vanilla for a truly authentic experience. Relax with a warm cup after a day of exploration and savour the lingering flavours of your Mauritian culinary journey.
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.
