Bol Renversé (Déviré) from Mauritius

The Bol Renversé (or Déviré) is an iconic dish from Mauritius, perfectly blending flavors and textures with rice, chicken, vegetables, and egg, all complemented by delicious sauces. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe, ideal for a family meal or a gathering with friends.

History and Origin

The Bol Renversé is a specialty of Mauritian Creole cuisine, influenced by Chinese, French, and African culinary traditions. This dish exemplifies the cultural diversity of Mauritius, where Asian, African, European, and Indian influences blend harmoniously. While it is traditionally served during celebrations and special occasions, the Bol Renversé is also a beloved everyday dish, appreciated for its comforting flavors and simplicity.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 200-300 g of chicken breast, sliced
• Rice: 200 g of cooked white rice
• Eggs: 2 (one per portion)
• Chinese cabbage (Pak Choï or Pé-tsaï): 1 small, sliced
• Carrot: 1, julienned
• Black mushrooms (Shiitake): 4-5, rehydrated and sliced
• Spring onions: 2, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, chopped
• Fresh ginger: 2 cm, grated
• Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons (divided)
• Sesame oil: 2 tablespoons
• Oyster sauce: 1 tablespoon
• Fish sauce (Nuoc Mam): 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
• Water: 1/4 cup
• Coriander: a few sprigs for garnish

Steps to Make the Recipe

1. Marinate the chicken:
   In a bowl, mix the sliced chicken with the chopped garlic, grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce.
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

2. Prepare the vegetables:
   Slice the Chinese cabbage, carrots, and black mushrooms into thin strips.
   Chop the spring onions and set them aside.

3. Cook the chicken:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
   Add the marinated chicken pieces and sauté them until golden and cooked through.
   Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Cook the vegetables:
   In the same pan, add the second tablespoon of sesame oil.
   Sauté the spring onions, carrots, mushrooms, and Chinese cabbage for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
   Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, the oyster sauce, fish sauce, water, and the cornstarch dissolved in water.
   Mix well and cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
   Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and mix everything together.

5. Cook the eggs:
   In a small pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up, ensuring the yolks remain runny.

6. Assemble the Bol Renversé:
   Place a fried egg at the bottom of each bowl.
   Add a generous portion of the vegetable and chicken mixture over the egg.
   Then, add a portion of cooked rice on top and press gently to compact everything.

7. Serve:
   Place a plate on top of the bowl and quickly flip it so the contents of the bowl are on the plate.
   Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh coriander and serve immediately.

Local Wines or Beverages

To accompany this Mauritian dish, a dry white wine or a light rosé would be a great match as they complement the delicate flavors of the chicken and vegetables. If you prefer a local beverage, you can opt for rhum arrangé (flavored rum) from Mauritius, which adds a tropical note that pairs perfectly with the dish. Another refreshing option is fresh sugarcane juice, a popular drink on the island.

Recommended Dessert

To complete this Mauritian meal, a light and refreshing dessert would be ideal. Try a coconut cake or fresh tropical fruits like mango or papaya, which bring natural sweetness typical of the region. You could also try a banana rum tart, a dessert that reflects local influences.

Conclusion

The Bol Renversé (or Déviré) is a delicious dish that represents the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Mauritius. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, this dish reflects the island's cultural heritage by blending Chinese, French, and Mauritian Creole elements. Pair it with a light wine or a local beverage and finish with a tropical dessert for a complete and memorable culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!