Eight sweet treats to try in Mauritius

Mauritius is home to a rich cultural mix and sugar cane. The combination of these two elements results in eight very local treats for you to discover, taste and, for some of them, to bring back in your luggage.

– A coconut macatia at the bakery

Somewhere between a bun and a brioche, this pastry has a melting heart of grated coconut and sugar. An ideal snack for young and not-so-young alike. A few years ago, merchants would ride through towns and villages on bicycles, shouting “So bouillan, macatia coco…!” (Very hot, macatia coco). People used to rush to taste the bread rolls fresh from the oven. Today, they are mostly found in bakeries.

– An alouda at Port-Louis market

A must in the bazaar, following a tour during which our senses were stimulated by the scent. A stop in one of the stalls serving this thirst-quenching drink of Asian origin in the heat of the capital is a real treat. It consists of milk flavoured with rose or almond, with grated agar-agar and “touk maria” (tapioca seeds). Mauritians love them!

– Fruit pastes from Les Vergers de Labourdonnais

In their orchards in the north of the island, mangoes, passion fruits, pineapples, papayas, guavas, litchis, citrus fruits and other types of fruit are grown all year round to provide gourmets with delicate and delicious fruit pastes. Savour them in Mauritius and bring them back as gifts in their attractive gift boxes.

– The “Napolitene” (Neapolitan)

This small shortbread biscuit with jam and a glazed sugar coating is a must in Mauritius. Perfect with tea, it can be eaten several days after purchase. It is available in all shops and supermarkets.

– Gato coco

A delicacy made of grated coconut and sugar that comes in a conical shape and is oven baked, thus caramelising it. Also available in shops.

– Maï” pudding (corn-starch pudding)  

A traditional Mauritian dessert, also found in street food and food shops. Probably a legacy from the English. Served in square or triangular portions, the pudding is covered with a layer of grated coconut powder.

– Gato zinzli

Sweet potato, rice flour and lentil paste are the ingredients of this Chinese pastry covered with sesame seeds. These small fried balls are delicious and are traditionally offered during the Chinese New Year. They are nevertheless available in shops all year round.

– Mauritian chocolates

The first Belgian chocolate maker produced his first dark chocolates in 1983. Since then, the Van Ann brand has greatly diversified its range of chocolates, which delicately blend with local products. Today, several chocolate artisans also offer Mauritian products in shops as well as in local craft shops.

A lot of creativity and new interpretation of sweets from other origins: in Mauritius, the Sugar King has some delicious surprises in store for you!