Mauritius: On the Spice Route

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Mauritius: On the Spice Trail

A true melting pot of European, African, and Asian cultural and culinary influences, Mauritius invites you on a journey of unique and unforgettable flavours. At the heart of this sensory and colourful alchemy, spices unveil their fragrant secrets. Let’s explore the spice trail that infuses Mauritian cuisine with its distinctive and aromatic character.

From the Village Shop to the Port Louis Market: A Fragrant Journey

Spices are so deeply rooted in local food culture that you’ll find them everywhere—village corner shops, supermarkets, markets, souvenir stores, craft boutiques, and gourmet delicatessens. Whether sold in sachets, loose by weight, or as mixed assortments in attractive packaging, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to bringing some home, either for your own use or as gifts.

However, for a truly immersive and colourful olfactory experience, one address stands out: the Port Louis Central Market.

Here, spices are sold by weight. Piled in vibrant mounds or stored in large jute sacks (gonis), they await discovery. Take your time browsing the many stalls and breathing in the aroma of these botanical treasures. Vendors will be delighted to explain the names, origins, and culinary uses of their spices.

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Spices on the Plate

While spices are found in nearly every Mauritian kitchen, it’s Indian cuisine that makes the most vibrant and exotic use of them. For a culinary journey worthy of the finest tables, head to some of the island’s best Indian restaurants. Here are five recommendations:

‍Staying at Marguery Villas? Don’t miss Happy Rajah, located just opposite the resort, offering refined and vegetarian-friendly Indian cuisine.
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At Mythic Suites & Villas? Two must-try addresses just 15 minutes away by car: the renowned Safran by Chef Ramesh in Trou d’Eau Douce, and Amari by Vineet in Belle Mare—two stunning settings where spices take centre stage.
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‍Exploring the island? Head to Indra, in Domaine Les Pailles at the entrance to Port Louis, for a beautiful traditional Indian setting, or to Namasté, on the waterfront at Le Caudan.

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Which Spices to Bring Home – and How to Use Them

Here are some of the top spices to pack in your suitcase—and ideas on how to use them in your cooking:

‍Star anise, intensely aromatic, can be grated into sauces or marinades, and also adds depth to desserts.
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‍Pink peppercorns, a subtly sweet variety of pepper, lend a unique blend of peppery, aniseed and fruity notes to savoury dishes.
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‍Cardamom, with its floral, citrusy fragrance, is perfect in rice dishes and desserts.
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‍Turmeric, known locally as cumin, flavours poultry, lamb, fish, vegetables and rice dishes with its earthy notes and vibrant colour.
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‍Curry leaves (caripoulé), often found in spice blends like masala and cari, add a rich depth of flavour to many dishes.
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‍Saffron, the famous “red gold” and the world’s most expensive spice, is a prized ingredient in meat, fish, vegetable, and dessert recipes.

Make the most of your stay by indulging your senses and awakening your palate to the subtlety and richness of the finest spices Mauritius has to offer. Feel free to ask our concierges—they’ll be happy to share their favourite addresses.

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