Anastasia Smith
The island nation of turquoise waters, pristine sands and tranquil sunsets is also home to an assortment of mouth-watering delicacies just as delightful as its fabled island charm. Embark on an exploration of local cuisine and let your taste buds revel in a fusion of favours delectably Maldivian.
In the tropical islands of the Maldives, the rich variety of fish species in the surrounding waters inspires a plethora of fish-based dishes, with Garudhiya reigning as a beloved favourite. This clear fish broth or soup is both nourishing and delectable, featuring tuna as its star ingredient. Varieties such as skipjack, yellowfin tuna, little tunny, or frigate tuna are commonly used. The preparation involves simmering chunks of tuna in water, and then enhancing the broth with the addition of curry and pandan leaves, onions, and fresh chilli peppers. This Maldivian staple is traditionally served with roshi, the authentic flatbread of the island nation.
What could be better than enjoying a traditional Maldivian breakfast to kick-start your morning in the Maldives? One of the most popular breakfast options among locals and travellers is Mas huni, which is a simple yet delicious combination of tuna, onions, grated coconut, and hot chilli peppers. This dish is prepared by mixing all the ingredients in a bowl and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Although it is effortless to prepare, it is undoubtedly one of the most flavoursome and delectable dishes in Maldivian cuisine. To enjoy the best serving of Mas huni, you should try it the traditional way by pairing it with warm and freshly baked roshi and sweetened hot tea.
Crowned one of the many unofficial national dishes of the South Asian nation, Gulha could be best described as a deep-fried savoury dumpling. The simple yet incredibly scrumptious local delicacy is being served at almost every cafe, eatery and high-end restaurant. You can even try it during your stay at a luxury resort in Maldives the likes of Nh Collection Maldives. Treat yourself to a flavoursome Gulha or two and let the true foodie in you unleash in the tropical island paradise.
As you wander the busy streets of Male, you might want to try out a local delicacy called Masroshi. It is a fried dough filled with a savoury blend of smoked tuna, grated coconut, hot peppers, onions, garlic, ginger, minced curry leaves, and lime. Although it is commonly enjoyed as an afternoon snack, some locals also have it as a light breakfast.
A traditional Maldivian dessert to top off your traditional Maldivian meal, Saagu Bondibai is a scrumptious dessert variety in the tropical islands, which is also enjoyed as an indulgent snack, especially by those with a sweet tooth to sate. Saagu seeds combined with warm coconut milk, and condensed milk make for a delightfully creamy treat, satisfying for both your taste buds as well as your soul. Savour a mouthful of Saagu Bondibai and relish the taste of heaven like never before.
