Mauritius, a beautiful island nation east of Madagascar, boasts a unique cuisine that reflects its multicultural heritage. Here’s a glimpse into some must-try Mauritian delights.

1. Mauritian Creole Curries – Indian-Inspired Seafood Curries

Influenced by Indian curries, these fragrant dishes are lighter and feature fresh seafood. Think “Cari Poisson” – fish curries simmered with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of Creole-Indian preparation. Octopus curries, or “Cari Ourite”, are also popular in this culinary format. Enjoy these influences from across the ocean at dining spots specializing in multicultural Mauritian cuisine, such as Zafran or Zen Wei, located at Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas.

2. Palm Heart Salad – aka “Millionaire’s Salad”

This salad features hearts from the abundant palm trees growing on the island, offering a crisp, nutty texture. Dressed simply with a vinaigrette, it’s a refreshingly light counterpoint to the curries.

3. Boulettes – Chinese-Inspired Dumplings

A delicious legacy of Chinese immigrants, Boulettes are steamed dumplings filled with savoury minced meat or fish. They’re often enjoyed as appetizers or snacks and can be found at both the best restaurants in Mauritius and street-side stalls.

4. Gajak – A Favourite Local Snack

These crunchy peanut brittle squares are a delightful treat. Another dish with South Asian influences, peanuts are caramelized with sugar and sometimes flavoured with ginger or cardamom, offering a sweet and satisfying bite.

Billjones94, Gur Rewari (a kind of Gajak) from Lucknow, a traditional Indian snack made with Jaggery and crunchy sesame seeds in the form of crispy bars, CC BY-SA 4.0

5. Tomahto – Mauritian Coconut Cake

No culinary exploration is complete without dessert. Tomahto, a moist and flavorful cake, features caramelized bananas and a hint of rum, encased in a fluffy coconut filling. It’s the perfect ending to a delightful Mauritian meal.