Indian Ocean Innovation: Réunion

Volcanic Island Cheeses

Réunion's dramatic landscape and multicultural population create unique cheese possibilities:

Fromage de Plaine des Cafres - Type: Semi-hard cheese - Milk: Cow's milk from volcanic pastures 🌿 - Aging: 2-4 months in lava caves - Characteristics: Mineral notes, firm texture

The high-altitude Plaine des Cafres provides cooler temperatures suitable for cheesemaking. Tamil-French producer Selvam Tambidoure ages cheese in natural lava tubes, creating distinctive flavors while honoring both his Indian heritage and French training.

Bouchons Réunionnais - Fresh cheese in banana leaf wrapping - Inspired by traditional Indian paneer - Fusion of techniques and presentations - Zero-waste packaging solution

Cultural Fusion Examples

Zamal Cheese: Infused with local spices (not cannabis despite the name) - Created by Creole cheesemakers - Reflects island's spice traditions - Popular at local festivals - Exported to metropolitan France