Joanna James
Maldivian food needs no introduction, a diverse range of dishes which is brought together by a synergy of coconut, seafood and spices. For culinary enthusiasts, the perfect way to dive deep into the intricacies of Maldivian food is to take a private cooking class while on vacation, with the following dishes being some of the best ones you can learn.
Garudhiya is a simple yet flavourful fish broth that is considered a staple in the typical Maldivian diet. Traditionally made with freshly caught tuna, the dish uses minimal ingredients—water, salt, and tuna form the base—but the true strength lies in its depth of flavour. The soup is typically accompanied by rice, lime, onions, and chilli for a complete meal. Perfecting Garudhiya in a cooking class allows you to appreciate the subtleties of Maldivian cuisine, where fresh ingredients and balance are key. Mastering this meal will give you insight into the importance of seafood in Maldivian culture and how local chefs elevate simplicity into something full of passionate excellence.
A Maldivian breakfast is not a Maldivian breakfast without Mas Huni, a dish consisting of shredded tuna mixed with coconut, onions, and chillies, served with roshi (flatbread). It’s a refreshingly light dish packed with protein, perfect for starting the day on the tropical island. Mas Huni is a true reflection of the Maldives' relationship to the ocean, with tuna being a central ingredient in many Maldivian dishes. In a private cooking class, you’ll learn the correct technique to shred and mix the ingredients to create the perfect balance of flavours. Naladhu Private Island Maldives is renowned for offering bespoke cooking experiences where you can master this dish and recreate an authentic Maldivian breakfast back home.
Fihunu Mas is yet another Maldivian staple, which translates to ‘grilled fish.’ Typically made with reef fish, the fish is marinated in a blend of local spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, then grilled to perfection over an open flame. The result is tender, flavourful fish with a slightly smoky taste that is unmatched when paired with lime and a salad. A Maldives private cooking class will teach you the importance of a good marination prior to the cooking process, and grilling techniques to impress your friends back home. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, learning the traditional techniques to prepare this dish will elevate your culinary skills, and you’ll gain an understanding of the importance of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients in Maldivian cuisine.
An exploration of Maldivian cuisine is incomplete without trying Hedhikaa, also called "short eats." These bite-sized delicacies perfectly compliments a cup of tea or just as a quick snack while on the go. Some of the most popular Hedhikaa snacks include:
Bajiya – a pastry filled with fish, coconut, and spices
Gulha – deep-fried dough balls filled with tuna
Keemia – fried fish rolls
Foni Boakibaa – a traditional coconut cake
Mastering the art of making Hedhikaa in a cooking class is a cheat code whenever you crave an evening snack, or when preparing to host guests. You’ll learn how to prepare these snacks from scratch, gaining hands-on experience with the various fillings and frying techniques.
Finally, you can learn how to make Maldivian desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth. This dessert is concocted with sago pearls, sugar, the everpresent coconut milk and cardamom, along with any other spice you wish to add (always remember, experimenting is key to great dishes) resulting in a creamy, comforting dish that’s often served on special occasions. In a private cooking class, you’ll discover the secrets behind making this silky dessert. From perfecting the texture of the sago pearls to balancing the sweetness, you’ll leave with a recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family. The dessert encapsulates the tropical flavours of the Maldives, offering a sweet end to your culinary journey.
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.
