Let’s set the scene: Welcome to the beautiful islands of Comoros; these are a group of Islands situated on the Indian Ocean between the large island of Madagascar and the coast of southeastern Africa – Mozambique. The sun will shine, the water will actually be the incredible blue you always wanted, and your tummy? Well, if you did not know it was there, you would swear it was grumbling like an angry volcano. You’re here for the food, and rightly so, because Comoros has a culinary scene that can make any foodie’s heart do a little dance. But before you dive into that first plate of spiced rice or the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste, there are a few things you should know. It is crucial to know some measures of etiquette when it comes to Comorian dining, or you will spend most of your time dumbstruck.
One thing that you need to know before going to any Comorian eating place is that it is a socially acceptable practice to share. Well, in Comoros, they do this to the heart. Sharing meals with your family is part of the culture, and no one would think of taking an extra serving of rice home. When you are invited to a meal or invited to a house, then you are taken as one of them, and it is all about sharing. Dishes are placed in the center of the table, and everyone helps themselves. There’s a kind of unspoken rule that no one goes hungry as long as there’s food on the table. So, if you’re a lone wolf eater, it might be time to embrace your inner social butterfly—or at least fake it until dessert.
Now, here’s a little heads-up: don’t be surprised if you’re invited to dine with people you’ve just met. Comorians are known for their hospitality, and it’s genuinely warm, not the polite but awkward kind. It’s not unusual for a friendly conversation at the market to end with an invitation to lunch. Say yes. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll have a great story to tell later about how you ended up in someone’s kitchen, learning that “just a pinch” of cloves in Comorian cooking is more like a handful. This is valid for both premium and cheap hotels.
Yes, you read that right. There is no rule against using hands and, in fact, this is the best way to dine here. Utensils? Pffft. That’s for amateurs. Handling your food the cultural way gives you a direct connection with the food that can never be obtained, no matter how vivid the imagination was while holding a fork or spoon in your hand. However, of course, before you rush to pick rice like a baby, we should look at some preliminaries.
First of all, if you want to eat with the locals, you have to use your right hand only. As for the left hand… you might as well call it dirty or use it for some other not-so-pleasant use, and you really do not want to get those two confused. So, right hand only, okay? You’ll want to master the art of forming a small ball of rice or scooping up food with your fingers. It takes practice, and yes, you’ll probably end up with more rice on your lap than in your mouth at first. But don’t worry—Comorians appreciate the effort, and you’ll earn a few good-natured laughs along the way.
Before you start eating, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly. It’s part of the dining ritual, and many homes and restaurants will have a little basin or water jug for guests to use. It is not only useful; it precedes the meal as a prelude created before an opera.
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Comorian food is very diversified and contains elements borrowed from the African, Arabian and French cuisines which makes food in Comoros the tasty adventure. You’re going to encounter dishes seasoned with cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla. Yes, vanilla—Comoros is one of the top producers in the world, so don’t be surprised if it makes an appearance in savory dishes as well. It’s a little twist that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about food.
Rice is the grain that can accompany an opulent fish or meat curry. Langouste a la Vanille, the national dish simply to describe lobster with vanilla sauce, is an understatement that should be taken with a pinch of salt. It sounds strange, I know, but once that buttery, sweet sauce hits your tongue, you’ll understand why the Comorians look at you funny when you express surprise. “Vanilla in lobster? Of course, what else would you put in there?” they’d probably say, eyebrow raised.
Now, here’s where things can get a bit dicey: Comorians love their spices. If you’re not used to cloves or cinnamon in your main courses, prepare for a culinary curveball. And while the heat level is usually moderate, don’t be caught off guard by a surprise pepper here and there. If you find yourself fanning your mouth, just roll with it. Nobody said developing a global palate was going to be smooth sailing.
Dining in Comoros is more than just about the food; it’s a ritual. When you’re invited to a meal, be aware that there are a few unspoken rules. For starters, don’t rush. Meals are a time for bonding, storytelling, and savoring the moment. If you’re used to gobbling down your food in five minutes flat, it’s time to slow down. Take a breath. Enjoy the food and the company. During traditional meals, you might notice that the eldest or most respected person at the table starts eating first. Wait for them to begin before you dig in. It’s a sign of respect that goes a long way in showing you’re clued in on local customs, even if your rice-scooping technique leaves something to be desired.
If you’re at a more formal gathering, you might even see people giving a small prayer or thanks before starting. It’s a nod to the communal spirit and gratitude for the meal. You don’t have to recite anything, but a moment of respectful silence doesn’t hurt.
Remember all those times your parents told you not to slurp? Yeah, forget that. In Comoros, slurping isn’t just forgiven—it’s practically expected when you’re enjoying a soup or a particularly juicy dish. It’s the kind of thing that feels rebellious and freeing at the same time, so go ahead and let that spoonful of mkatra foutra (a Comorian fish soup) be your moment of glory. And speaking of surprises, don’t raise an eyebrow if you see dishes with bananas or coconut in them. Comoros has an abundance of tropical fruits, so naturally, they make their way into many meals. One dish you must try is mataba, made from cassava leaves cooked in coconut milk and often paired with plantains. It’s hearty, comforting, and will make you wonder why you don’t put coconut milk in everything.
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Dining in Comoros isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s an immersion into a culture that values community, flavor, and the little rituals that turn a simple meal into an event. So, when you sit down for your first Comorian feast, remember: take your time, use your hands, savor every bite, and, most importantly, share a laugh or two with those around you.
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