Must-Try Authentic Foods in Mauritius for a Delightful Culinary Experience

Food in Mauritius is a melting pot of influence that comes from neighbouring countries and its authentic cuisine recipes passed on for centuries. Mauritius tourism focuses on showcasing the rich inheritance of this island nation with its art, culture and food. Trying different types of foods in Mauritius, you will get a blend of tastes from all around the world such as African, Chinese, Indian, and Creole. However, as the recipe travelled from one place to another, it was modified to the taste of locals. It brings uniqueness to every dish you try at food stalls, fine-dine restaurants, or food courts. From the tangy taste of curries to the sweetness of fresh tropical fruits, Mauritius offers a multicultural heritage in its food.

Top Cuisines in Mauritius

• Baulettes
• Mine Frites
• Bol renversé
• Dholl puri
• Du Pain Frire
• Rougaille
• Poudine Maïs
• Napolitaine
• Jamalac
• Biryani
• Vanilla tea

Baulettes

Baulettes are one of the most famous street foods in Mauritius. These are steamed dumplings with fillings such as vegetables, shrimp, lamb, chicken, or fish. Typically, served with a specially prepared broth called bouillon, baulettes are a crowd favourite in Mauritius.  The soup comprises chicken, meat, shrimp, or vegetable stock. You can find many street-side stalls at China Town in Port Louis selling these delicious soupy dumpling variations.

Mine Frites

This is yet another mouth-watering Mauritius street food heavily influenced by Chinese cuisines. If you are looking for veg food in Mauritius, try this soy-sauce-fried noodles sprinkled with spring onions and chillies. The local food vendors prepare mine frites and serve it hot. Pair it with a cold beverage to give your taste buds a spicy and colourful treat.

Bol renversé

You are in for a treat with this authentic cuisine in Mauritius.  If you are a biryani lover, you must try this variation of classic Indian biryani. It has three layers, which consist of oozing fried eggs, stir-fried chicken or seafood, and boiled eggs. From preparation to serving, everything is unique in this dish. The three layers are carefully placed followed by rice and when serving at the table, it is reversed. This explains its name – Bol renversé! You must enjoy this “Upside-down bowl” at a local restaurant in Mauritius.

Dholl Puri

Dholl puri is the most commonly found street food in Mauritius. It is a flatbread stuffed with split yellow lentils and served with curry. If you are in the mood for a hearty meal in Mauritius, try this authentic dish. This dish will remind you of the “chana dal paratha”. As Mauritius is an island country, its cuisines are heavily influenced by other nations, which give a familiar taste. Nonetheless, it is a great idea to try this food as it is equally loved by locals and tourists.

Du Pain Frire

If you are missing Indian street food in Mauritius, have a bite of Du Pain Frire. You will be reminded of the Indian bread pakora. This street food is a hot favourite among locals as well as tourists. It is crunchy fried bread paired with green chutney. Have it in the evening along with a hot cup of tea at a local stall. It allows you to interact with locals and enjoy your evening snack.

Rougaille

Try this traditional Mauritian food prepared with a rich tomato base and flavourful spices. The paste consists of onions, garlic, ginger, coriander and a bunch of other herbs adding depth to this dish. Once the sauce is ready, the chef adds their choice of topping such as egg, tofu, or meat to prepare the recipe. In Mauritius, it is a cultural food and its recipe is passed on from one generation to another.  So, every rougaille recipe has its own magic with a slightly different taste.

Poudine Maïs

Poudine Maïs is the Mauritius polenta pudding that is heaven for sweet lovers. It is a famous food in Mauritius, which is made of corn meal. Poudine Mais has a distinct flavour of cardamom, vanilla, and coconut. This dessert is served cold and enjoyed at tea time. It is an authentic cuisine in Mauritius and has a huge fan base among sweet fanatics. This low-fat pudding has little sugar with a rich and creamy texture.

Napolitaine

Napolitaine is a local food in Mauritius that will satisfy your sweet tooth. It is an uncomplicated recipe that hits the right spot. The shortbread slices with jam and a layer of icing sugar taste heavenly. It is easily available in pastry shops, supermarkets, and food courts in Mauritius. You must eat this dessert if you want to explore the local sweet preparation.

Jamalac

Jamalac is not a cuisine but a seasonal fruit found in the tropical country. Also known as a love apple, this fruit has a high water content. It is sweet in taste and many street staff offer this fruit topped with tamarind juice and sprinkled with salt and chilli powder to balance its taste. This fruit is excellent for digestion. You can enjoy this as a sweet treat after your lunch.

Biryani

This item on the list may surprise you but biryani gets a Mauritian twist here. The classic biryani has unique flavours and spices in Mauritius. The preparation is similar to Indian biryanis with a few differences. Any celebration is incomplete without having biryani in Mauritius. Many families have their own recipe that brings out a distinct taste, texture, and aroma of this very popular dish. It also gives you an insight into how recipe travel around the world and acclimatise per the local culture. Also, if you want a homely taste, this is the closest you can get to Indian food in Mauritius.

Vanilla Tea

Last but not least, vanilla tea is a famous drink in Mauritius, which has the classic taste of vanilla. The native black tea on the island is mixed with Ceylon tea sourced from Sri Lanka with the added flavour of vanilla to give it an authentic taste. You can sip this tea in the morning and evening hours to refresh your mind.

Cuisines in Mauritius truly reflect the diverse culture and rich history of the island country. It offers a burst of flavours that cater to every palate. A Mauritius tour package gives you the perfect opportunity to try these delicacies. Food is the gateway to experience the lifestyle and taste preferences of a place. It is an undivided part of any travel experience. Whether you are a fan of savoury dishes or a sweet lover, Mauritius has something for everyone. You must visit this beautiful island located in the middle of the Indian Ocean to see a world of excellence in its art, culture, and food.