Reunion Island’s cuisine is a melting pot of French and Creole dishes that blend the flavors and traditions of the many people who have heritage in Reunion.
From beach and home -cooking restaurants to street food and delis, the accent is on informal dining, influenced by infusions of spice and adaptations of recipes handed down over the generations.
Seafood is fresh and readily available and, as with chicken and other meats, it is often cooked in the style of one of Reunion’s central dishes; ‘Cari’ (curry). Made with subtle blends of Indian spices that produce a mild rather than hot curry, there are many intense flavors to enjoy in these dishes.
Reunion’s colorful markets are must to visit. Look out for exotic brèdes; the edible leaves and stems of different plants, such as chouchou and mourooms, as well as the abundant sweet tropical fruits of the area.
As Reunion is a department of France, expect some excellent patisseries serving warm croissants and excellent fresh breads. For sweet tooth cravings, the famous Tarte à la Banane is made with banana puree in a cream, sugar, flour and rum custard base, baked on a puff pastry crust and topped with sliced ripe bananas.
Reunion is also home to one the world’s most expensive coffees. The Bourbon Pointu blend is found only on the island and is a mild, flavorsome cup. Reunion is also a global source of premium quality vanilla. Much of the history of the island is in fact tied up in the cultivation of vanilla, coffee and sugar; which takes Reunion from the colonial days of slavery to the egalitarian place it is today.
The culture of Reunion is everywhere; from expressive and abundant street art to the regular live music and cultural festivals that happen on the Island year-round.
Visiting the small towns of Sainte-Marie, District la Mare and Mausoleum Scubillon, will give good insight into the cultural diversity of the island. Tour the Rue de Paris (birthplace of poets) or plan your trip to coincide with the Sakifo Music Festival; an international gathering of cross-genre artists performing live.
From cultural crafts, Creole architecture and jewelry to fresh tea, home-grown produce, farm cheeses and sweet delicacies; Reunion Island is a deliciously creative paradise.
Find out what local South African and international bloggers thought of their adventures in Reunion by visiting http://blog.welcometoreunionisland.com/
