Listly by Josh Brendon
Maldives is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations with stunning coastal features, tranquil beaches, thriving hospitality industry, unique culture and delightful local cuisine.
If you've ever heard of 'Maldives fish' then you know what cured tuna is. Cured tuna is the Maldives' most favorite fish delicacy. The tuna, which is caught using traditional techniques, is dried till it loses its moisture and becomes hard and chewy. This drying up of tuna originally started as a method of preserving, but over the years it has become so popular that it is now one of the most loved delicacies of the Maldives.
Mas Huni is to a Maldivian as what toast and eggs is to an Englishman. This dish, which is the staple breakfast of the Maldivian people, is a fine combination of the core elements of Maldivian cuisine; coconut, fish, and starch. The dish comprises smoked tuna and scraped coconut, which are mixed together with a range of spices and topped off with lemon juice. The result is a spicy, tangy, and wholesome meal that will give you the boost you need in the morning. A great resort that offers romantic dining in Maldives is the Naladhu Maldives.
Much like other Southeast Asian cuisines, Maldivian cuisine also boasts a wide range of curries. Although there are many curries, nothing beats the traditional fish or chicken curries. These curries are prepared by cooking succulent chunks of fish or chicken in a thick curry made of coconut milk, stock, and an assortment of spices. The curries complement many other dishes, and can be enjoyed with various types of flatbreads. You haven't tasted Maldivian cuisine if you haven't tried out the fish and chicken curries.
This fried fish dish is a delicacy that is made for all those who love their fish and spices. The dish is very easy to prepare, but don't let that dissuade you, as this dish is a treat for your taste buds. You can expect thick slices of tuna, fried to perfection with tomato paste and spices to create irresistible flavors and aromas. Theluli Mas is generally served with rice, flatbread or an assortment of vegetables; but no matter what its served with you can be guaranteed that your taste buds will be thoroughly satisfied.
Everyone knows chai; that creamy concoction made of tea and milk. But Maldives takes the chai experience a step further by adding spices to the chai; the result is a savory drink that will replenish you after a long day of exploring the islands. Masala chai is extremely popular in the Maldives and you can find it at almost any way-side shop, so make sure you try out this unique Maldivian hot beverage.
If you like breadfruit you are sure to love Banbukeyo Bondibai. Banbukeyo Bondibai is one of the Maldives' unique dessert delicacies. The main element of the dessert is stewed breadfruit, which is cooked with sugar and generous quantities of thick coconut cream; giving you a sweet, creamy, and delicious dessert that will leave you craving for more.