Madagascar local gastronomy: authentic delights for a tasty travel experience

A key ingredient of the Malagasy diet, rice is a regular feature in any meal. It is often accompanied by “laoka”, a side dish based on meat, fish, or vegetables, with a sprinkle of coconut to enhance flavour. Among the traditional and delicious Malagasy recipes, Romazava is a tempting stew made of zebu meat cooked with green leaves and local spices, such as the “brèdes mafane”. The zebu meat, a bovine typical in tropical areas, is the starring ingredient of most dishes, including the famous Masikita, marinated and grilled skewers often accompanied by spicy sauces such as the “sakay”.

Moving to the coast, the local cuisine also boasts a wide variety of fresh fish, shellfish, and seafood. Fish poached in coconut sauce with aromatic spices, and fish carpaccio marinated with citrus fruits are a joy for foodies. What’s more, the “zebu au poivre vert”, zebu meat and green pepper, is a traditional dish attesting to the influence of French colonization as it combines local ingredients with European cooking techniques.

Diving into Madagascar's local culture cannot be fully accomplished without tasting its delicious street food. A yeasted pancake made from rice flour, sugar, and traditional sourdough, Mofo Gasy, can be enjoyed in the best street food markets. Among the many delights is Koba, a classic dessert steamed and cooked in banana leaves, made of peanuts, cane sugar, and rice flour. As simple as flavourful, these dishes offer an authentic way to discover the island’s daily life.

Those wishing to know where to enjoy the best street food in Madagascar cannot miss Antananarivo’s outdoor markets. A great one is the Analakely market where you will find every local delight. For the most adventurous taste buds, exploring the small villages along the coast offers the chance to discover traditional dishes prepared according to ancient recipes. This is why joining a gastronomic tour in Madagascar is one of the best ways to engage with the culture and traditions of the Malagasy people.

Madagascar villages by the sea allow a comfortable stay for those wishing to indulge in adventurous gastronomic experiences. Located in Nosy Be and surrounded by a lush tropical park, the VOI Amarina Resort pampers its guests with delicious traditional dishes in a luxury venue. Wonderfully situated on the famous Andilana Beach, the VOI Andilana Beach Resort is another gem to be discovered. Here, guests can embark on a culinary journey through authentic and refined dishes. Top choice for travellers in search of an all-inclusive luxury resort in Madagascar, both hotels guarantee a unique experience amid relaxation and a gastronomic feast.