What to eat in the Maldives – 8 must-try dishes

Bis Keemiya is a snack eaten regularly by Maldivians and can be described as a cross between a spring roll and a samosa. Bis Keemiya is stuffed with hardboiled eggs, cabbage, onions and tuna, but is surprisingly a light snack so you can eat more than one! You'll easily find this snack at most cafes in the Maldives.

Considered a traditional dish, Garudhiya is simply a fish soup that is loved by many! As your first introduction to Maldivian cuisine, Garudhiya is a perfect choice. Even the best restaurants in Maldives have Garudhiya on their menus, simply because it packs a punch. This fragrant soup is made essentially with lime, fresh fish, onions, rice and chilli. Usually, tuna is the first fish choice for Garudhiya, which is shaped like a cube.

For the perfect baked fish cakes, check out Kulhi Boakibaa! This baked delicacy combines three of the island nation's staple ingredients; rice, coconut and fish. The addition of turmeric, lime, coconut oil, ginger and peppers makes this dish even tastier, making it a much-loved tea-time snack for all. Kulhi Boakibaa with a hot glass of Maldivian tea is perfect for a quiet evening.

As already established, fish, particularly tuna, plays a big role in Maldivian diets, therefore is much loved! Mas Huni is eaten for breakfast and is made of smoked shredded tuna, coconuts, chilli and onions. Regularly eaten alongside Maldivian flatbread or chapatti, you can request this dish at properties such as Holiday Inn Kandooma Maldives. Sometimes, boiled butternut squash or pumpkin is also added.

A fried dough ball stuffed with coconut, onions and tuna, Gulha is the best afternoon snack if you want to grab a quick bite. Several street vendors offer various tasty versions of this dish so don't miss out! A cup of coffee along with Gulha makes a perfect pairing.

If you're in the mood for something sweet, then Saagu Bondibai is the perfect solution to your cravings! Commonly known as sago pudding, this dish is made from coconut milk, rose, cardamom and sago seeds. The starch element of this dish is made out of the tropical plant stem's spongy centre. Reasonably priced, this desert is easily found in most local restaurants.

One of the best seafood meals to try is a classic Maldivian fish curry! The spicy aftertaste is ideal for lovers of spicy food. The addition of ingredients such as cinnamon adds a punch like nothing else.

Dhon Riha is a yummy fish curry, which is of a creamy colour due to the coconut and fennel seeds. Along with diced tuna, this dish contains curry powder, green mangoes, ginger, turmeric, cardamom and chillies which give it a perfect flavour.