A taste of Mauritius
My trip to Mauritius is imminent - this time next week I’ll be watching the sun set on my first night on the island - so when I was invited to sample some Mauritian cuisine in London courtesy of Shanti Maurice hotel, I felt I had a duty to attend in the name of pre-trip research.
It had nothing to do with the free food, obviously.
I was also keen to go as the spread was to be prepared by Selina Periampillai, author of The Island Kitchen. I’d already come across Selina’s Mauritian-inspired recipes during my research – how could I miss the chance to taste them?
On arrival I was welcomed with a rum dawa cocktail, which consists of lime, aloe vera juice (that means it’s good for me, right?) and a more than generous slosh of lemongrass- and ginger-infused rum.
Responsible adults never drink on an empty stomach, so I got stuck in with some beef tartare (my first try - interesting…), shellfish and tamarind bisque, maccher jhol (fish curry with cauliflower, aubergine and potatoes), mini puris and gâteaux piments.
The best bit, however, came last. Caramelised pineapple simmered away on the stove, only to be scooped up by Selina and drizzled over a large scoop of homemade coconut and Mauritian vanilla ice cream.
It was all delicious. Mauritius’ culture is a unique blend of Indian, French, African and Chinese influences, which is reflected in the food. The dishes I sampled are just a few of the creations available at Shanti Maurice, and elsewhere on the island. My taste buds are officially tickled and ready to take on all that Mauritius can throw at me.
Don’t forget to follow me on my Mauritian adventure! I’ll be posting updates on Twitter, Instagram and Vine from Friday 27th June - 3rd July.
Huge thanks to PRco, Shanti Maurice and Taste Mauritius for hosting this glutton.