Weekend Pick-Me-Up: A Taste of Mauritius

The weekend is nearly here, and it's the perfect time to relax, rejuvenate, and indulge in something delicious. One of my fondest memories from our time in Mauritius is savouring the vibrant, mouthwatering flavors of the island’s cuisine. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that takes me right back to those sun-kissed beaches and bustling markets: Gâteau Piment Sandwiches with Tropical Pineapple Chutney.

These spicy split pea fritters, paired with a tangy and sweet pineapple chutney, make for an irresistible snack or light meal. Whenever we ate these on the island, it felt like a little celebration of all the diverse culinary influences that make Mauritian food so special. Let’s dive in and bring a piece of Mauritius to our weekend!

Gâteau Piment (Spicy Split Pea Fritters)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup yellow split peas (dhal), soaked overnight

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped

• 2-3 sprigs of fresh coriander, chopped

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Drain the soaked split peas and blend them in a food processor until you get a coarse paste. Avoid adding water.

2. Transfer the paste to a mixing bowl and add the chopped onion, green chilies, coriander, cumin seeds, and salt. Mix well.

3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.

4. Shape the mixture into small, flat patties.

5. Fry the patties in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil

   

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Tropical Pineapple Chutney

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pineapple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup white vinegar

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the pineapple, red onion, bell pepper, ginger, green chilies, vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, and turmeric powder.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the flavours meld together.

4. Remove from heat and let it cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

   

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Assembling the Sandwich

Ingredients:

• Fresh baguette or your favorite bread, sliced

• Lettuce leaves

• Slices of fresh cucumber and tomato

Instructions:

1. Slice the baguette and lightly toast it if desired.

2. Spread a generous amount of tropical pineapple chutney on one side of the bread.

3. Place a few lettuce leaves, slices of cucumber, and tomato on top.

4. Add 2-3 Gâteau Piment fritters to each sandwich.

5. Top with the other slice of bread and press gently.

Voilà! You now have a delicious Mauritian-inspired sandwich that’s sure to lift your spirits. The spicy fritters combined with the tangy-sweet chutney and fresh vegetables create a symphony of flavors that’s both satisfying and invigorating.

Enjoy your weekend with this delightful pick-me-up, and let the flavors of Mauritius transport you to a tropical paradise. Bon appétit!

Selina x