Listly by Joanna James
The Maldives, as an island nation, is an exotic experience for travellers. But apart from the beautiful white sand beaches and thrills of water sports, the nation is loved for its cuisine. Made from blends of tropical ingredients and seafood, here are some must-try dishes in the Maldives.
Fish is a staple ingredient in Maldivian cuisine, and the islanders know just how to reap the many health benefits of this omega oil-rich food type. One such delicious and nutritious dish is Garudhiya. It is a humble fish soup that's bursting with flavour and goodness! A traditional favourite, this dish is made with chunks of fish, chilli, lime, and salt. To truly understand and appreciate the uniqueness of the Maldives islands, you must explore the country above and below the waves! Even the novice diver is encouraged to experience this magical phenomenon; book a Maldives diving package for a tailor-made experience you won't forget. Some top resorts like Finolhu Maldives employ professionals to make your experience unique.
This one will definitely be your all-time favourite snack in the Maldives. The delicious little packets of chapati filled with smoked tuna and coconut flakes will treat your taste buds to a burst of flavours.
A lovely fresh and zesty salad, mas huni is made with shredded smoked tuna, grated coconut, lime, chilli and finely chopped onions. It's an all-time favourite at breakfast and is eaten with chapati or a type of roti called roshi.
Imagine a samosa and spring roll having off-spring, that is exactly what a Maldivian bis keemiya is. A lovely tea time snack, sold at just about every café on the capital island Male, this crispy pastry roll is stuffed with boiled egg, shredded and sautéed cabbage, onions, and other flavoursome ingredients.
The Maldives has very limited supplies of locally grown produce, and amongst these few crops are yams. Due to its availability, yams have proved to be a versatile ingredient in some Maldivian dishes. The most popular is the fried yam snack. Similar to French fries, the matchstick type cuts of yam are deep-fried and sprinkled with salt and chilli to make a crispy snack that is soft on the inside. Have yours dipped in sauce, as you enjoy sunset cocktails on the terrace of your private island resort in the Maldives.
The most popular seafood dish in the Maldives is freshly cooked lobster. The melt-in-your-mouth meat of fresh lobster is packed with flavour and you certainly cannot miss this treat when holidaying on the archipelago. Try the dish as you enjoy dining at your luxury Maldives resort.
This is the islanders' favourite dessert. Sago pudding is a creamy treat made with boiled sago seeds, thick coconut cream, and sweetened condensed milk. The pudding is flavoured with cardamoms and rose water for a lovely fragrant and tasty treat.