Joanna James
The Maldives has more to offer than beachside bliss and luxurious island escapes. For food enthusiasts, this destination is a hidden gem of culinary delights with a unique blend of influences, flavours, and aromas. With that in mind, these are the top dishes every foodie should try on their holiday.
The Maldives is synonymous with the freshest catch of the day, and Mas Riha showcases its love affair with seafood. This Maldivian fish curry is crafted from succulent pieces of fresh tuna or swordfish, simmered in a rich coconut milk gravy; it’s infused with a blend of exotic spices as well as ingredients like garlic, chilli, and ginger. The result is a dish that will tantalise your taste buds, balancing the subtle sweetness of coconut milk with the heat of local spices. Generally served with fragrant rice, Mas Riha is a true celebration of the ocean's bounty.
For a taste of the sea in its purest form, Garudhiya is a must-try. This traditional Maldivian fish broth or soup is made using freshly caught raw tuna, complemented with chopped chilli, curry leaves, garlic, and onions along with a dash of lime. The simplicity of Garudhiya lets the essence of the ocean shine, offering a clear and invigorating soup that's both spicy and refreshing. It's a dish that is usually accompanied by Maldivian flatbread (called roshi) or rice and connects you with the heart of the local culinary traditions.
Hedhikaa is the Maldivian term for a delightful array of short eats or small snacks, perfect for a teatime treat. Whether you are at a local café or a private resort such as OBLU SELECT Lobigili, you can look to savour these diverse and enticing bite-sized delights. Some of the popular culinary creations that come under Hedhikaa are Masroshi which consists of fried dough stuffed with tuna, Gulha which is a deep-fried pastry ball with tuna filling and Bajiyaa which is like an Indian samosa. Perfect to enjoy with hot tea, these snacks offer a combination of flavours and spices that are bound to thrill your taste buds!
When it comes to an all-time breakfast favourite, Mas Huni is the star of the show in this Indian Ocean nation. This beloved dish combines finely shredded tuna with freshly grated coconut, onions, chilli, coriander, and a bit of lime. It's typically served with roshi and hot, aromatic tea for a fulfilling and delicious meal. The contrasting textures and the fusion of flavours make Mas Huni an unforgettable morning foodie experience; however, you can also look to try it while enjoying all-day dining in Maldives at resorts that offer comprehensive all-inclusive packages.
A foodie's paradise would be incomplete without more unique snacks, and in the Maldives, deep-fried yams fit the bill and are the ideal alternative to French fries! These locally grown yams are fried in butter, resulting in a crispy exterior while the inside is soft, slightly sweet and will melt in your mouth. They are best eaten hot after being freshly fried, accompanied by a variety of sauces that elevate this simple snack. It's a delightful treat for those seeking the comfort of familiar fried foods with a unique Maldivian twist.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
