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Where in the World
Spotlight: Mauritius
Located off the coast of Africa, near Madagascar in the middle of the Indian Ocean, lies the tiny Island of Mauritius. Mauritius is a relatively small island of only 1158 square miles and 205 miles of coastline. The island features a vast central plateau surrounded by several volcanic mountains, subtropical forests, rivers, streams and gorgeous waterfalls. The beaches are of white sand with crystal clear water out to beautiful coral reefs. It is a land where the food is just as awesome as the beaches. With its Chinese, African, Indian, French, Muslim, Dutch and British histories and inhabitants, there is no shortage in diversity of people or food. With Creole roujales, Indian curries, Muslim briyanis, sweet and sour pork, British breakfasts and delicate French dishes, Mauritius has it all. Herbs and spices are the glue that holds all of these cultures and foods together and combines them into one peaceful country and food experience. All of the herbs are grown throughout the country in small fields and windowsills on all of the resorts. The local markets are filled with basil, cilantro, parsley, tarragon, mint and thyme. Here are a few typical Mauritian chutneys:
Tomato Coconut Chutney
Serves 4
Ingredients
6 ripe tomatoes, peeled and deseeded
Milk of one coconut or ½ cup of canned coconut milk
1 onion, finely sliced
½ cup freshly chopped coriander
1 tsp freshly chopped green chilies
Juice of one lime
Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Finely chop the tomato flesh and place in a bowl together with the remaining ingredients. Mix well.
Serve at room temperature to accompany curry and rice dishes.
Peanut Chutney
Serves 4
Ingredients
½ cup toasted peanuts
½ Tbsp tamarind paste
¼ cup freshly chopped coriander
2 dried red chilies
¼ cup freshly chopped mint
2 garlic cloves
Juice of 2 limes
Salt
Instructions
1. Place all the ingredients apart from the salt in a mortar and pestle and grind to a fine paste. Add a little water if the mixture is too dry. Alternatively, place in a food processor and process until quite smooth.
2. Season with salt then transfer to a serving bowl.
Serve at room temperature to accompany curry and rice dishes.