Gâteaux Piments (Mauritian Split Pea and Chili Fritters)

Name: Gâteaux Piments (Mauritian Split Pea and Chili Fritters)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: Mauritius
Ingredients: 1 cup yellow split peas, soaked overnight; 2 green chilies, chopped; 2 cloves garlic; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 tbsp chopped cilantro; 1 tsp cumin seeds; Salt to taste; Oil, for deep frying

10 servings20 min prep15 min cookEasy Mauritius

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Gâteaux Piments (Mauritian Split Pea and Chili Fritters)

Story updated September 17, 2026

Gâteaux piments, crisp fritters of split peas and chili, trace their base ingredient and technique to the Indian indentured laborers who came to Mauritius in the 19th century, adapting dal-fritter traditions with local chilies. Sold hot from street stalls, they're one of the island's most popular savory snacks.

Ingredients

Scale:· 10 servings

1 cup yellow split peas, soaked overnight
2 green chilies, chopped
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion, chopped
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 tsp cumin seeds
Salt to taste
Oil, for deep frying

Instructions

1Drain the soaked split peas and blend coarsely with chilies and garlic, leaving some texture.
2Mix in the onion, cilantro, cumin seeds, and salt.
3Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot.
4Shape spoonfuls of the mixture into small flattened balls.
5Fry in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6Drain on paper towels and serve hot as a snack.

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