Joanna James
As one of the world's most popular beach holiday destinations, the abundance of fresh seafood means the Maldives is also a foodie's paradise. Here are 10 treats to dig into during a Maldivian vacation.
Often compared to a combination of a spring roll and a samosa, Bis Keemiya is a must sample dish for all those who love crispy snacks. The pastry which features a scrumptious filling made from tuna, onions, shredded cabbage and hardboiled eggs is the ideal pick me up during the day. Available at street cafes in the capital and Hulhulmale, the snack is also inexpensive.
If Maldivians have a comfort food that's the equivalent of chicken soup, then it is surely a bowl of Garudhiya. The tuna broth soup is fragrant as it is wholesome when prepared with curry leaves, salt, lime, chilli and onions. The best place to enjoy a bowl of this piping hot soup is at Iberry Café, in Hulhumale.
As one of the handfuls of crops that are cultivated within the Maldives, yams hold a special place in the Maldivian dinner table. Fried yams, in particular, are consumed as a snack by locals who serve the dish with a special sauce that compliments the fried vegetable. Raaveribe Maizaan cafes are renowned for their take on this classic dish.
Likened to chapatti due to its consistency and flavour, Masroshi features a filling of shredded coconut and smoked tuna fish to add a different texture and flavours to the dish. Spices and curry leaves are also tossed into the filling during the preparation of this delectable snack which is widely available in Male's restaurants including the Findhandi Restaurant, Café Rio and the Komandoo.
Typically eaten as a breakfast dish, Mas Huni combines tuna with grated coconuts and onions and a dash of lime to create the perfect blend of flavours. The dish is usually consumed with roti or chapatti while restaurants the likes of the Sea House and Crystal Sands serve it in different variations.
Puddings made from sago may not be common in most Asian cuisines but Maldivians love the refreshing and soothing taste of this traditional dish. Warmed using coconut milk, the dish is sweetened with condensed milk and a host of spices including cardamom. Rosewater is responsible for the irresistible aroma of the dessert which is also considered one of the finest vegetarian meals in the Maldives.
Another popular snack, the reef fish cutlets feature a Tandoor Masala spice-infused fish that's shredded and tossed in with mint, cucumber and papaya to create a cutlet of supreme quality. Those dining in Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort or any of the many other best resorts in Maldives for families will find this dish on the buffet menu.
As one of the priciest cocktails in the Maldives, the Lucky & Al is not for the faint of heart. The strongly flavoured beverage known for its intense aroma and flavour is believed to have been created as a tribute to the American Prohibition period.
This special type of tea is one that's served in tea houses and homes across the Maldives. Available in black tea and milk tea varieties, the beverage is usually served with savoury snacks or cakes.
Made using apricot brandy, white rum and several fruit juices, the Maldivian Lady is a soothing cocktail for fruit lovers.
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