Saint-Paul's Culinary Delights

Indulge in the Flavors of Saint-Paul

Saint-Paul, the historic capital of Reunion Island, is not only renowned for its scenic beauty but also for its diverse and delectable cuisine. As a melting pot of cultures, the food scene in Saint-Paul is a reflection of the island's rich history and vibrant fusion of flavors.

Savor Local Dishes

When visiting Saint-Paul, be sure to try some of the local delicacies that will transport your taste buds to paradise:

• Boucané: This smoky and tender pork dish is a staple in Reunionese cuisine. It is typically served with rice, beans, and a flavorful sauce.
• Cari: A traditional Creole dish, cari is a stew made with meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The combination of flavors in this dish is simply irresistible.
• Bourbon vanille: Reunion Island is famous for its vanilla production. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the rich and fragrant flavors of bourbon vanilla in various desserts and dishes.
• Samoussa: These savory snacks are similar to Indian samosas but with a unique Reunionese twist. They are usually filled with a mouthwatering mix of meat, vegetables, and spices.
• Rougail saucisse: This dish combines sausages with a spicy tomato-based sauce. It is often served with rice and brings together the bold flavors of Reunionese cuisine.

Unmissable Restaurants

1. Le Flamboyant

Dine in an elegant setting at Le Flamboyant, a renowned restaurant showcasing the best of Reunionese cuisine. Their menu features a thoughtful selection of local dishes prepared with precision and creativity.

2. La Taverne Saint-Pauloise

For a taste of authentic Creole flavors, head to La Taverne Saint-Pauloise. This restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with a mouthwatering menu filled with traditional Reunionese dishes.

3. Le Jardin de Jouvence

If you're in the mood for seafood, Le Jardin de Jouvence is the place to be. Situated by the sea, this restaurant specializes in fresh, locally sourced fish and seafood dishes that will leave you wanting more.

Cook Like a Local

If you want to recreate the flavors of Saint-Paul in your own kitchen, here are a couple of recipes to try:

Boucané

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of smoked pork belly
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the smoked pork belly to the bowl and let it marinate for at least 2 hours.
3. In a skillet, sauté the chopped onions until golden brown.
4. Add the marinated pork belly to the skillet and cook until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve the boucané with rice, beans, and a flavorful sauce.

Samoussa

Ingredients:

• 12 spring roll pastry sheets
• 250 grams of ground beef or chicken
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of curry powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon of ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a pan, heat some oil and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until golden brown.
2. Add the ground beef or chicken to the pan and cook until browned.
3. Add the curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.
4. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each spring roll pastry sheet and fold it into a triangle or cigar shape.
5. In a deep fryer or pan, heat oil and fry the samoussas until golden and crispy.
6. Serve the samoussas hot as an appetizer or snack.

Explore Saint-Paul's Culinary Delights