Expo 2020 Dubai, UAE – : Sometimes referred to as the ‘Rainbow Island’ Mauritius is well known as a unique melting pot of culture with influences from around the world, from France to India, China and Africa. As a result, the country is home to many ethnic groups living in harmony and offers an abundance of flavours through their cuisine. Ti la Boutik, meaning the small boutique, in the Mauritius Pavilion in the Opportunity District at Expo 2020 Dubai, offers a selection of unique and authentic products from this resourceful little island. Below are things to look out for before Expo finishes.
Vanilla pods and vanilla-infused products
There’s no more underrated flavour than the warm and comforting flavour of vanilla. Resulting from French influence, Mauritius produces vanilla pods and vanilla products. This sweet-smelling spice is one of the most versatile and can be used in cooking, baking (who doesn’t love a simple vanilla cupcake?), beverages (vanilla latte, anyone?), DIY body care products (think vanilla and sugar body scrub), essential oils, fragrance, and even pleasantly scented housecleaning products. The store in the Mauritius pavilion is packed with everything vanilla, from pure vanilla pods to be used any way you like, to vanilla flavoured sugar adding a sophisticated touch to your beverages and desserts.
Fruit products
The hugely popular banana chips at Ti la Boutik are packed with magnesium, vitamin A, iron, phosphorus, and potassium. The sweet and savoury chips make an ideal snack between meals and can be enjoyed by all ages. They taste divine on their own but can be a delicious addition to your morning bowl of muesli or preferred cereal. They can also be dipped in peanut butter for an extra nutritious and satisfying snack.
Also available are unique fruit jams and pastes made from fruits that grow in abundance on the Indian-ocean Island including pineapple, banana, papaya and mango, in addition to exclusive Mauritian pickles made from mango, star fruit, chili, banana, garlic, and chili paste among others.
Natural honey
Another versatile product of nature with many uses from home remedies to cooking and skincare is pure Mauritian honey. Known as nature’s sweetener, honey can be added to a range of dishes as a natural and healthier alternative to sugar. For centuries, packed with antioxidants, antifungal and antibacterial properties, honey has been used in home remedies all around the world. The honey from Mauritius is extracted directly from the tropical fruits and flowers that are native to the beautiful island. Ti la Boutik offers varieties such as poly-floral, eucalyptus and chilli flavoured honey.
Herbal tea and moringa infusions
Mauritius is also known for its wide range of natural and organic herbal teas. These caffeine-free infusions can be enjoyed at any time of the day and come with an array of health benefits. Made from delicately plucked leaves, and other parts of specially selected plants, the teas are made with several active ingredients, including moringa in powdered form, and are naturally flavoured by fruit or herbal extracts. Popular infusions include the pomegranate and lemongrass teas known for their rich health benefits.
Handcrafted marine models
In addition to delicious Mauritian delicacies, Ti la Boutik also features a beautiful display of unique handcrafted marine ship models to make an exquisite addition to the collection of marine enthusiasts. The beautiful replica models represent historical sailing vessels which served the French and the British colonies centuries ago. Also available for sale is a model of an original Arab Dhow.