Authentic Fish Vindaye Recipe and Must-Visit Spots on the Island
This month, we finally took the plunge and booked our long-awaited holiday to Mauritius for October. The excitement is palpable as we count down the days to experiencing the beauty and culture of Mauritius. It’s been over four years since I last visited what used to be my yearly destination. After COVID, it became tricky to return.
I always get asked about visiting Mauritius, so I've put together some of my favorite tips. From the pristine beaches to the bustling markets, there's so much to explore and enjoy. Plus, I've included a cheeky Vindaye recipe—a dish that holds a special place in my stomach because it brings the sunshine of Mauritius right into your kitchen. The tangy, spicy flavors of this traditional Mauritian dish are unforgettable, and it's one of my all-time favorite things to eat when I'm there. Every bite takes me back to the vibrant island life, the aroma of street food, and the warmth of the Mauritian people.
But first why Mauritius?
Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Mauritius promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The island's unique mix of Creole, French, Indian, and Chinese influences creates a vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry.
Our Itinerary Highlights
While we’re still finalizing the details, here are a few things we're particularly excited about:
1. Beach Bliss: Mauritius is famed for its breathtaking beaches, and we plan to spend plenty of time soaking up the sun on the pristine sands of Belle Mare and Trou aux Biches.
2. Exploring Port Louis: The capital city, Port Louis, is a must-visit for its bustling markets, historic sites, and vibrant street food scene. We're looking forward to visiting the Central Market, the Blue Penny Museum, and savouring delicious Mauritian street food.
3. Nature and Adventure: Mauritius offers more than just beautiful beaches. We’re excited to hike in the Black River Gorges National Park, visit the Chamarel Seven Colored Earths, and take in the stunning views from Le Morne Brabant. The island’s diverse flora and fauna are a nature lover’s dream. Casela nature park is a great place to go with the kids.
4. Cultural Experiences: From the colorful Tamil temples to the colonial architecture, we’re eager to immerse ourselves in the island’s rich cultural heritage. Attending a traditional Sega dance performance and sampling the local cuisine are experiences we can't wait to have.
What We're Most Excited About
Quality Family Time: This trip is not just about exploring a new place, but also about spending quality time together as a family. We look forward to creating unforgettable memories, from lazy beach days to exciting adventures.
Discovering New Flavours: As a food lover, I’m particularly excited to dive into Mauritian cuisine again. Expanding my repertoire, armed with my recipe notebook, ready to explore fresh seafood to exotic fruits and back to traditional dishes like dholl puri and rougaille!
Counting Down the Days
October feels like it’s just around the corner, and the anticipation is building every day. Booking this holiday has given us something wonderful to look forward to, and we’re already dreaming of the warm sand between our toes and the soothing sound of waves lapping the shore.
Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to our departure date and, eventually, share a detailed account of our adventures in Mauritius. We’re so eager to experience the island’s beauty, culture, and hospitality again, and we can’t wait to bring you along on our journey. Whether it’s through photos, stories, or tips, we’re excited to share every moment with you!
Mauritian Fish Vindaye
Ingredients:
450g firm white fish (like cod or tilapia), cut into chunks
1 tbsp mustard seeds
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 onions, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2.5cm piece of ginger, grated
2 tbsp turmeric powder
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions:
Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and cook until they begin to pop.
Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are soft and translucent.
Stir in turmeric powder and cook for another minute.
Add fish chunks, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix well to coat the fish with the spice mixture.
Cover and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with steamed rice.