A Gourmet Journey in Seychelles: Must-Try Dishes and Local Cuisine

• Seafood, Seafood and More Seafood

Seychelles is renowned for its delicious fish curries. The most common fish used is often parrotfish, kingfish, or tuna, simmered in a rich coconut milk-based sauce flavoured with local spices like lemongrass, ginger, and garlic. It's typically served with rice and lentils. The creamy coconut milk balances the bold flavours of the spices, creating a harmonious blend that tingles your taste buds.

Tuna Tartare is another seafood delight that you mustn't miss in Seychelles. With the abundance of tuna in Seychelles, tuna tartare is a popular dish. Fresh tuna is diced and seasoned with lime juice, chilli, and spices, creating a flavourful and refreshing appetizer that's perfect for a hot day on the islands.

• Grilled Fish

Grilled fish, often served with a Creole sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and spices, is a popular and simple yet delicious dish in Seychelles. The smoky flavours of the grill complement the fish beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience for seafood lovers.

Octopus Salad, a fresh and tangy appetizer, is a must-try in Seychelles. Fresh octopus is marinated with lime juice, onions, and local spices. It's a refreshing and tangy appetizer or snack enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

• Bouillon

A hearty and flavourful soup made with fish or seafood, vegetables, and spices. It's often served with rice and is a comforting and nutritious meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices in the bouillon showcases the essence of Seychellois cuisine.

• Breadfruit

This starchy tropical fruit is a staple in Seychellois cuisine. It can be boiled, fried, or roasted and is usually served as a side dish. Breadfruit chips are a popular snack, offering a crispy and savoury option that pairs well with many Seychellois dishes.

While Seychelles offers a delightful array of seafood dishes, it's also known for its unique and unconventional choices. One such dish is Bat Curry. Though it might sound unusual to some, bat curry is a traditional dish in Seychelles. Fruit bats are cooked with spices and coconut milk, resulting in a unique and flavourful curry that's sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. It's an opportunity to embrace the island's cultural and culinary diversity.

• Rousettes

Rousettes are fruit bats that are cooked in various ways. Some locals enjoy them as a delicacy. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, it's a unique cultural experience for the adventurous foodie. Trying rousettes is like diving headfirst into the local traditions and flavours that make Seychellois cuisine so special.

• Puddings and Side Dishes

Ladob is a sweet and savoury dish made from ripe plantains or bananas cooked with coconut milk, sugar, and spices. It can be served as a side dish or a dessert and is a unique blend of lip-smacking flavours that showcase the creative fusion of sweet and savoury in Seychellois cuisine.

Seychellois desserts often feature coconut as a key ingredient. Coconut candy, coconut pie, and coconut ice cream are just a few sweet treats to try. The rich, tropical flavours of coconut infuse these desserts, making them a delightful way to conclude your meal.

• Local Drinks

Don't forget to try some of the local beverages. Fresh coconut water, with its natural sweetness and refreshing qualities, is a favourite choice among travellers seeking respite from the tropical heat. For those looking for something with a bit more punch, palm wine, traditionally tapped from palm trees, offers a unique and mildly alcoholic option. Additionally, locally brewed beer like Seybrew is popular and pairs well with Seychellois cuisine.

• Fruit Juices

Seychelles is blessed with an abundance of tropical fruits, so be sure to try fresh fruit juices made from fruits like guava, starfruit, and passion fruit. These juices provide a refreshing and tropical taste of the Seychellois landscape.

When visiting Seychelles, dining at local Creole restaurants and street food stalls is without a doubt the best way to savour the authentic flavours of this island nation. Keep in mind that the level of spiciness can vary, so it's a very good idea to ask for mild or medium spiciness if you're not accustomed to very spicy food. Enjoy your culinary journey in Seychelles, where the fusion of cultures and flavours creates a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. From the freshness of seafood to the boldness of bat curry, Seychellois cuisine offers a world of culinary adventures waiting to be explored.