Mauritian Creole cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours influenced by African, French, Indian, and Chinese culinary traditions. Here are 10 essential dishes that embody the vibrant gastronomic culture of Mauritius:

Rougaille

Rougaille is a cornerstone of Mauritian Creole cuisine, showcasing the island’s love for bold flavours and spices. This dish features a rich tomato-based sauce simmered with onions, garlic, thyme, and chilli peppers. It serves as a versatile accompaniment, often paired with fish, chicken, sausages, or even lentils and rice, each preparation adding a unique twist to the robust flavours of the rougaille.

Daube

Daube is a slow-cooked stew typically made with beef, marinated in wine and spices like cloves and cinnamon. It’s hearty and often served with rice or bread, showcasing French culinary influences in Mauritian cuisine.It is often served during festive occasions, family gatherings, and special events, bringing people together to enjoy its comforting flavours and hearty textures.

Banana Tart (tarte banane)

Tarte à la banane is a banana tart with a buttery pastry crust filled with slices of ripe bananas and sometimes flavoured with cinnamon or vanilla. It is a popular dessert in Mauritius, showcasing the island’s tropical fruits and French pastry influences.

Bol Renversé

Bol renversé, which translates to “upside-down bowl,” is a hearty dish that begins with a base of fragrant rice topped with stir-fried chicken or beef, mixed vegetables like carrots and peas, and a fried egg on top. Served in an inverted bowl, this dish allows the flavours to meld together before being flipped onto a plate, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that showcases the island’s fusion of culinary influences.

Cari Camaron

Cari camarons is a popular seafood dish featuring prawns cooked in a savoury curry sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and a blend of spices. Served with rice or bread to soak up the flavorful sauce, cari camarons highlight Mauritius’ abundance of seafood and its ability to create dishes that are both comforting and full of local flavours.

Poulet Tandoori ( Tandoori chicken )

Poulet tandoori highlights the Indian influence in Mauritian cuisine, where chicken pieces are marinated in a mixture of yoghurt and tandoori spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and garam masala. The marinated chicken is then grilled or roasted, resulting in tender meat with a smoky and aromatic flavour. Poulet tandoori is a favourite dish that embodies the island’s love for bold spices and robust flavours.

Boulettes

Boulettes are steamed dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables, bound together with herbs and spices. They are often served in a flavorful broth made from fish or chicken stock, garnished with spring onions and coriander. Boulettes highlight the fusion of Chinese and Mauritian cuisines, offering a comforting and hearty dish loved by locals and visitors alike.

Vindaye Poisson (Fish vindaye)

Influenced by the Indian community in Mauritius, fish vindaye features fish fillets marinated in turmeric, mustard seeds, and vinegar. The fish is fried until golden and served with a tangy pickled sauce made from mustard seeds, garlic, ginger, and chilies. This dish exemplifies the island’s culinary diversity and its ability to adapt Indian flavours to local seafood.

Cari ourit (Octopus Curry)

Seafood is prominent in Mauritian cuisine, and octopus curry stands out as a flavorful delicacy. The octopus is tenderised and then cooked in a fragrant curry sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, turmeric, mustard seeds,(yes these are our basic spices) and occasionally ginger. This dish exemplifies the island’s ability to blend Indian spices with local ingredients, offering a delightful fusion of tastes.

Confit (Pickle)

Mauritian pickle, known locally as “confit” is a beloved condiment that embodies the vibrant flavours of Mauritius. This traditional delicacy offers a unique taste experience characterised by its tangy, sweet, and spicy profile.Our tropical fruits, such as mangoes and pineapples are the main stars of this delicacy.It is featured with tamarind chutney ,salt and chilli powder who give the tangy taste. Nothing better than a good pickle after a good swim in our beautiful lagoons.

Beautiful heritage

These dishes represent additional facets of Mauritian cuisine, each offering a unique taste and reflecting the island’s diverse cultural influences. Whether you are exploring street food, traditional dishes, or desserts, Mauritius offers a culinary journey that delights the senses with its rich flavours and cultural heritage.