The Best Street Food in the Island
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Mauritius is an island nation that is part of the African continent and home of the now extinct dodo bird. On a global scale, this 788 square mile volcanic island is barely getting any attention – and in this day and time, that’s actually a very good sign of stability.
The street food of Mauritius is a fantastic blend of European, Asian, and African flavors and has been dubbed “culinary heaven” by those who have visited and sampled the food. In fact, if there is any country that must be visited for its extraordinary yet simple food – it’s Mauritius.
Chana Puri – These are fritters with spicy curried split peas cooked in dry bhuna sauce and served hot. Its origin is India.
Dhal Puri or Dholl Puri – These are bite size flatbread with curried split peas as filling. It is usually served with chutney and pickles and also originates from India.
Shaved Ice – This dessert or cold snack is found everywhere on the island. Its refreshing taste is enhanced with fresh fruits and sweet syrup.
Pineapples – Surprisingly, pineapples are sold ready-to-eat in the streets of Mauritius with chili flakes and sea salt. You buy the whole pineapple which is served on a plastic bag and eaten without utensils. You can also buy fresh coconut water as your drink.
Mazavaroo Paste – This is green chili paste that you get when you buy street food. It enhances the flavors of noodles, curries, and just about everything you can get your hands on.
Samosas – Now here’s a familiar word as food that has become very popular around the world. In Mauritius, it is also served bite size and filled with curried potatoes. It is cooked until crunchy and served hot.
Creole curries – The most popular of curries in Mauritius are the seafood curries because of the abundance in fresh seafood. It served with white rice and the smooth spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference.
Atchars – This is spicy pickled vegetables served as a side dish with your curry or rotis. It is also available in commercial quantity and has a fresh tangy essence.
Sugarcane juice – Aside from coconuts, sugarcane juice is very common in Mauritius. The carts and vendors have special machines that squeeze out the juice from the tough, fibrous sugarcane and the smell and taste is phenomenal.
Other street foods in the island are rotis and pakoras or fritters.