Comorian cuisine is a hidden gem of the Indian Ocean, blending African, Arabic, and French influences into dishes that are as flavorful as they are unique.
If you’re a foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons, you’re in for a treat.
These recipes are packed with bold spices, fresh ingredients, and a whole lot of soul.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to try something new, these Comorian recipes will transport your taste buds to the islands.
Ready to dive in? From hearty stews to fragrant rice dishes, we’ve got you covered.
These recipes are not only delicious but also easy to make at home. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking.
Trust us, once you try these dishes, you’ll be hooked.
1. Mkatra Foutra (Comorian Coconut Bread)
Mkatra Foutra is a fluffy, slightly sweet coconut bread that’s a staple in Comorian households.
It’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea. The combination of coconut milk and shredded coconut gives it a rich, tropical flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
How to Make It:
Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk the egg, coconut milk, and melted butter.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the shredded coconut.
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Why We Chose It:
This bread is a crowd-pleaser and a great introduction to Comorian flavors.
It’s simple to make but delivers a taste that’s anything but ordinary.
2. Langouste à la Vanille (Vanilla Lobster)
Comoros is famous for its vanilla, and this dish showcases it beautifully.
Langouste à la Vanille is a luxurious lobster dish with a creamy vanilla sauce that’s both sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
- 2 lobsters (cleaned and cut into pieces)
- 1 vanilla bean (split and seeds scraped)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic in butter until soft. Add the lobster pieces and cook until they turn pink.
Stir in the vanilla seeds and cream, then simmer until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Why We Chose It:
This dish is a showstopper. It’s elegant, flavorful, and perfect for a special occasion.
3. Comorian Banana Stew (Mataba)
Mataba is a hearty stew made with green bananas and coconut milk. It’s a comforting dish that’s both filling and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 4 green bananas (peeled and sliced)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (diced)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and tomatoes until soft. Add the spices, then stir in the bananas and coconut milk.
Simmer until the bananas are tender and the sauce thickens.
Why We Chose It:
This stew is a taste of Comorian comfort food. It’s simple, wholesome, and full of flavor.
4. Pilaou (Comorian Spiced Rice)
Pilaou is a fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 lb chicken or beef (cut into pieces)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp cardamom
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic in oil. Add the meat and spices, then cook until browned.
Stir in the rice and broth, then cover and simmer until the rice is cooked.
Why We Chose It:
Pilaou is a versatile dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves spiced rice dishes.
5. Comorian Fish Curry (Curry de Poisson)
This fish curry is a coastal delight, featuring fresh fish simmered in a spicy coconut sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb white fish fillets
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (diced)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and tomatoes in oil. Add the spices, then stir in the coconut milk and fish. Simmer until the fish is cooked through.
Why We Chose It:
This curry is a taste of the Comoros’ coastal cuisine. It’s spicy, creamy, and utterly delicious.
6. Comorian Cassava Cake (Gateau de Manioc)
This dense, moist cake is made with cassava and coconut. It’s a sweet treat that’s perfect for dessert or tea time.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups grated cassava
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make It:
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.
Why We Chose It:
This cake is a unique dessert that’s both gluten-free and delicious.
7. Comorian Beef Skewers (Brochettes)
These skewers are marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef (cut into cubes)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Marinate the beef with the onion, garlic, and spices for at least an hour. Thread onto skewers and grill until cooked through.
Why We Chose It:
These skewers are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling season.
8. Comorian Coconut Lentil Soup (Soupe de Lentilles)
This hearty soup is made with lentils, coconut milk, and spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- 4 cups water
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic. Add the lentils, spices, and water, then simmer until the lentils are tender. Stir in the coconut milk before serving.
Why We Chose It:
This soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for chilly days.
9. Comorian Sweet Potato Fritters (Beignets de Patate Douce)
These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix all the ingredients except the oil. Heat the oil and drop spoonfuls of the batter into it. Fry until golden brown.
Why We Chose It:
These fritters are a sweet and satisfying snack that’s easy to make.
10. Comorian Chicken Coconut Curry (Curry de Poulet au Coco)
This curry is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken (cut into pieces)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp oil
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic in oil. Add the chicken and spices, then stir in the coconut milk. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through.
Why We Chose It:
This curry is a classic Comorian dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
11. Comorian Pineapple Salad (Salade d’Ananas)
This refreshing salad is made with fresh pineapple, cucumber, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
- 1 pineapple (cut into chunks)
- 1 cucumber (sliced)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Toss all the ingredients together in a bowl. Chill before serving.
Why We Chose It:
This salad is a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for summer.
Conclusion
Comorian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored.
From the rich and creamy Langouste à la Vanille to the comforting Mataba, these dishes offer something for everyone.
So, why not bring a taste of the Comoros into your kitchen? Try one (or all!) of these recipes and let us know which one’s your favorite. Happy cooking!