In Mauritius, with its rich culinary tapestry, it is challenging to compile a definitive list of the “best” Chinese dishes due to the wide diversity of flavours. However, a curated selection of essential eats can provide a comprehensive culinary journey through Chinese cuisine. Here are 10 must-try dishes to embark on this flavorful adventure:

Peking duck

Peking duck is a popular Chinese dish that has found its place in the culinary landscape due to Mauritius island’s vibrant Chinese community and its love for flavorful dishes. Peking duck is traditionally prepared by marinating the duck with a mixture of spices and then roasting it until the skin becomes crispy and golden. The duck is often served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, cucumber, and sometimes scallions.Alongside the crispy duck and pancakes, restaurants in Mauritius may offer additional side dishes such as stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or other Chinese delicacies to complement the meal.

Dim sum

Dim sum, traditionally a Cantonese style of dining, has been embraced by the Chinese community on the island and has also gained popularity among locals and tourists alike.Restaurants in Mauritius offer a wide variety of dim sum dishes, ranging from steamed dumplings (like har gow and siu mai) to fried items (such as spring rolls and sesame balls filled with savoury or sweet fillings).Overall, dim sum in Mauritius reflects the island’s cultural diversity and culinary creativity, offering a delightful experience for both locals and visitors interested in exploring Chinese cuisine in this unique setting.

Kung Pao chicken

Kung Pao Chicken typically consists of stir-fried chicken pieces, peanuts, and vegetables in a savoury and slightly sweet sauce flavoured with soy sauce, vinegar, and often includes Sichuan peppercorns for a numbing, spicy kick. In Mauritius, local adaptations may vary, with some restaurants adding a touch of Mauritian spices or adjusting the level of spiciness to suit local tastes.

Mapo Tofu

Mapo Tofu is traditionally a Sichuan dish known for its spicy, numbing flavours. It typically consists of silken tofu cooked in a spicy and aromatic sauce made from fermented black beans, chilli bean paste (doubanjiang), minced pork or beef, and Sichuan peppercorns.The dish may also incorporate Mauritian spices or herbs to add a unique twist while staying true to the essential flavours of the traditional Sichuan Mapo Tofu.Mauritian restaurants or chefs might offer their own interpretations of Mapo Tofu, ensuring a balance of heat, spice, and savoury flavours that appeal to both local diners and visitors seeking a taste of authentic Chinese-inspired cuisine on the island.

Sweet and Sour Pork

In Mauritius, sweet and sour pork is a popular dish that reflects the island’s diverse culinary influences, particularly from Chinese cuisine. This dish typically features crispy fried pieces of pork coated in a tangy sweet and sour sauce, often accompanied by colourful bell peppers, onions, and sometimes pineapple chunks for added sweetness and texture.

Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings)

Xiaolongbao are delicate steamed buns filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth, originating from the Jiangnan region, especially Shanghai.In addition to pork, the soupy dumplings can also be filled with crab meat and crab roe.Typically found in chinese restaurant specialised in dim sum and dumplings,they are served steamed in bamboo baskets, often accompanied by a dipping sauce made with black vinegar and shredded ginger. The preparation requires skill to ensure the dumplings are delicate yet robust enough to hold the savoury broth inside until consumption.

Hot Pot

One of the most popular Chinese Cuisine in the world.It involves a simmering pot of broth placed in the centre of the dining table, where diners cook a variety of raw ingredients such as thinly sliced meat (beef, lamb, pork), seafood (shrimp, fish balls), vegetables (leafy greens, mushrooms, tofu), and noodles.It also have a variety of dipping sauces.Overall, Hot Pot is not just about eating delicious food but also about enjoying the experience of cooking together and sharing a meal with loved ones. It is a cherished tradition that showcases the diversity and richness of Chinese culinary culture on  a paradise Island .

Char siu (Barbecue Pork)

Mauritian-style char siu may vary slightly from traditional Chinese versions due to local preferences and ingredient availability. It is commonly prepared by marinating pork shoulder or belly overnight to enhance the flavours. The pork is then roasted or grilled until the exterior caramelises and becomes slightly charred, while the inside remains tender and juicy.It is easily found in most of the chinese stalls and restaurants all around the island.

Chow Mein (Fried noodles)

Chow Mein noodles are typically made from egg noodles that are stir-fried until crispy or slightly chewy. The noodles are key to the dish’s texture and are often stir-fried over high heat to achieve a slightly charred flavour.In Mauritius, chow mein is enjoyed both at home and in restaurants, and it’s a versatile dish that can be customised with different meats or made vegetarian. It’s appreciated for its savoury flavours, satisfying texture, and the blend of influences that make it a staple in Mauritian-Chinese cuisine.

Spring roll

Spring rolls are often made with a thin pastry wrapper filled with a mixture of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, sometimes combined with vermicelli noodles and occasionally with a choice of minced chicken, pork, or shrimp. The filling is seasoned with a blend of spices that can include garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sometimes a hint of local herbs or seasonings to suit Mauritian tastes.These rolls are then deep-fried until crispy, resulting in a crunchy exterior that contrasts with the tender and flavorful interior. They are commonly served with a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy tamarind-based sauce, adding to the overall enjoyment of the dish.

Embracing traditions and flavours

Embark on a flavourful journey through Chinese cuisine in Mauritius, where ancient culinary traditions converge with a tapestry of vibrant flavours and unique regional specialties. Whether wandering vibrant markets or savouring exquisite banquet dishes, Chinese food captivates with its timeless allure and distinctive charm, offering a feast that delights the senses and satisfies the soul.