4 Mauritian recipes

Looking for Mauritian recipes? If you are keen to explore further, why not read about a foodie road trip in Mauritius for further inspiration?

Want to explore new global cuisines from the comfort of your own kitchen? Check out more of our recipes from around the world with our Japanese recipes, Italian recipes and Greek recipes.

Easy Mauritian recipes

Mauritian butter bean curry (cari gros pois)

This butter bean curry is one of Shelina Permalloo's ultimate comfort dishes: warm, rich and full of nostalgic flavour. She says, "Growing up in a Mauritian household, pulses like butter beans were a staple. They were affordable, filling and could stretch to feed a big family without sacrificing taste. My mum would often cook this on quiet weeknights when money was tight but hearts were full. The smell of onions, garlic, curry powder and thyme gently simmering would fill the house, and bring everyone to the kitchen. It was humble food, but made with so much love and care that it felt special every time. This is everyday Mauritian cooking at its best – simple ingredients, bold flavour and made to nourish."

Mauritian chilli cakes (gato pima) with tomato chilli chutney

Gato pima is, without a doubt, Shelina Permalloo's favourite gajak — Mauritian street food snack. She says, "I grew up eating these spicy little fritters at every family gathering, festival or after school. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and lightly spiced on the inside, and packed with bold flavours. What I love most is how simple they are to make – just soaked yellow split peas and a few aromatics. They’re naturally vegan and gluten-free, which means I can serve them to pretty much anyone. And once you start eating them it’s impossible to stop at just one. In my family there was always a batch frying in the background while the adults chatted and the kids ran around. They aren’t just food, they’re memory, culture and connection all wrapped up in a golden, crispy bite."

Mauritian magic bowl (bol devire)

This is a recipe of Chinese-Mauritian origin and the magic lies in its theatrical upside-down reveal at the table. Originally a street food staple in Mauritius, it’s made for sharing and celebration. Shelina Permalloo says, "I loved serving it in my restaurant, where my diners would always smile as the bowl is flipped to unveil a perfectly fried egg perched on top of a mound of rice and glistening veggies."

Mauritian coconut flan

Shelina says, "Growing up, flan was a constant on the table at every Mauritian gathering. It didn’t matter if it was a birthday, family Sunday lunch or just a regular dinner, there would always be a flan cooling in someone’s fridge, ready to be turned out with that beautiful golden caramel top. For me this coconut flan is more than just a dessert, it’s a nostalgic reminder of home, family and tradition. My mum used to make it all the time using simple storecupboard ingredients and, no matter what else was served, it was always the flan everyone looked forward to. This one combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the sweet depth of caramel, making it comforting, elegant and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting or just want a taste of the island, this recipe will transport you straight to Mauritius."