Mauritius Cooking Essentials: A Taste of Island Tradition
Discover the Culinary Delights of Mauritius
If you’re planning a trip to Mauritius, you’re in for more than just breathtaking scenery—think volcanic craters, rugged mountain peaks, and sun-kissed beaches. Mauritius is also renowned for its rich local cuisine. For food enthusiasts and adventurous travellers alike, here are a few traditional cooking tools that are essential for creating authentic Mauritian dishes.
TEMPO WITH A TEMPER
A tempo is much more than a simple pressure cooker—it’s an essential part of everyday life in Mauritius. It’s used to cook everything from lentils and dhall to vegetables and meats, all with the perfect texture. As you stroll through local villages in the late afternoon, you might hear its distinctive whistle. It’s especially key for preparing Mauritian curry, or “Kari” as it’s known locally, making sure every dish is cooked just right.
THE TOWERING TAWA
Love crepes and pancakes? You’ll enjoy trying the Mauritian versions like dholl puri, farata, and roti. These delicious savoury dishes are best cooked on a tawa—a heavy-based pan similar to a pancake pan but thicker, giving the flatbreads a unique texture. If you’re passionate about cooking, the tawa is a fantastic souvenir to bring home, so you can recreate these Mauritian favourites in your own kitchen.
ROS KARI: THE SPICE GRINDER
The ros kari is a traditional stone tool used for grinding spices in Mauritian households. It’s a flat stone paired with a rolling pin, perfect for preparing fresh chutneys and masala pastes. The rhythmic sound of spices being ground fills the air with rich, inviting aromas, adding a special touch to any Mauritian dish. A freshly ground curry paste from the ros kari is bursting with flavour, making it an essential part of local cuisine.
Cook Like a Mauritian
Want to immerse yourself further in the culinary traditions of Mauritius? Our team can help you plan authentic holiday experiences that include everything from food tours to hands-on cooking classes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just love to eat, Mauritius has plenty to offer.
Take a bit of Mauritius’ vibrant flavours home with you! Let us help you create lasting culinary memories from your time on this beautiful island.
