Three typical meals of a day in Mauritius

The extraordinary ethnic and cultural mix of Mauritius makes it a land of plenty when it comes to discovering the delights of the local flavours. Having brought back their culinary traditions and spices from distant lands, Mauritians love to explore a wide range of savours and aromas. Recipes and eating habits provide a tasty blend of pleasures. You are invited to discover them in three typical meals during your stay in Mauritius.

A rural touch at breakfast

Forget the standard continental breakfast and try something very different with the in-villa catering service in our residences. Typical of the countryside and for early risers, this Indian breakfast is meant to provide sustenance before a hard day’s work. A strong, milky and very sweet local tea is taken to help rehydrate. The ancients used to boil all the ingredients of this chai (Indian tea) on a wood fire, and the strong taste of the black tea leaves is counterbalanced by brown sugar, a favourite among Mauritians. Gato piment (a fried dough of dried grains and chilli) filled in homemade bread (a local round loaf) or sofé rice (the leftover mix of rice and side dishes from the previous day reheated) make for a hearty meal. Fruit eaters will complete their menu by enjoying a banana at the end. You are now ready for a full day activity!

Briani’s heady spice ode for lunch

Briani or biryani is a dish originating from the Indian subcontinent made with rice (usually basmati), spices, meat, eggs and potatoes. Imported to Mauritius by Muslim indentured labourers and immigrants, it is a traditional meal enjoyed by all communities. Briani is a convivial dish, which requires a lot of preparation beforehand. It is traditional at weddings where the whole neighbourhood comes to help with its preparation and is cooked over a wood fire in a deksi (large tin container) sealed with breadcrumbs. The meat used (beef or chicken) is marinated overnight in yoghurt together with various spices to make it as soft as possible. Typical spices include cardamom, star anise, cloves, cumin, fried onions, in an exquisite and succulent flavour combination. Served with cucumber and yoghurt for easy digestion, as well as tomato chutney, the briani is a hymn to generosity, sharing and love of fine produce. A nap or a walk to digest is a perfect way to enjoy briani.

Heavenly Light Dinner Dim Sum 

Dim Sum originated in China thousands of years ago and bear all the mysteries of Asia in their delicate transparency. These small bites of vegetables, meat, shrimp or fish wrapped in won ton dough are steamed and presented in small circular baskets made of woven bamboo. Chinese restaurants all serve them on their menus. Our recommendation: order several sorts to add variety to your meal. Accompanied by soy sauce or red chilli, Dim Sum is an ideal light and delicious dinner.

Mouth-watering? Contact the residence’s concierge and let our experts advise you for an exceptional sensory and tasting experience.