Cari Grois Pois

Introduction to Cari Grois Pois

Cari Grois Pois is a traditional Mauritian dish that takes inspiration from the rich Indian, Chinese, and Creole influences of the island. Known for its hearty flavor and wholesome ingredients, Cari Grois Pois is a staple in Mauritian households and is often served at family gatherings and special occasions.

The History of Cari Grois Pois

This dish has its roots in the Indian subcontinent but has been adapted over time by Mauritian natives, incorporating local ingredients and spices to create a unique and comforting meal. The use of gros pois, or broad beans, is common in many Mauritian dishes, symbolizing the agricultural heritage of Mauritius.

Ingredients

• Gros Pois (Broad Beans) - 250g
• Rice - 200g
• Onion - 1 large
• Garlic - 4 cloves
• Ginger - 1 inch piece
• Turmeric Powder - 1 tsp
• Cumin - 1 tsp
• Tomatoes - 2 medium
• Coriander - a handful
• Salt - to taste
• Vegetable Oil - 2 tbsp
• Coconut Milk - 1 cup
• Water - 3 cups

Preparation

Before starting, it's essential to prepare all your ingredients. Soak the gros pois overnight or for at least 8 hours. This will soften the beans and reduce cooking time. Meanwhile, you can finely chop the onion, garlic, and ginger. Dice the tomatoes and chop the coriander as well.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the Gros Pois

Drain and rinse the soaked gros pois. Add them to a pot with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring this to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the beans are tender. If needed, you can set a cooking timer to help you manage the cooking time.

Step 2: Preparing the Sauce

In a separate large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Stir in the turmeric and cumin, cooking for an additional minute.

Add the diced tomatoes to the onion mixture and cook until the tomatoes release their juices and become soft. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Once the gros pois are tender, drain them and add to the saucepan with the coconut mixture. Stir to combine all ingredients, and let them simmer together for another 10-15 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.

Step 4: Cooking the Rice

Meanwhile, in another pot, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add 1 cup of water to the pot, a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for another 5 minutes, fluff with a fork before serving.

Serving Cari Grois Pois

To serve, place a generous portion of rice onto a plate and ladle the gros pois curry over the rice. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander for added freshness and flavor. Enjoy your Cari Grois Pois with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing cucumber salad.

This dish is often enjoyed with family and friends, bringing people together to relish its comforting and wholesome taste. Always make sure to serve it warm for the best experience.