Joanna James
The Maldives is famous for its pristine white beaches dotted with luxury resorts, and surrounded by the aqua blue waters of the Indian Ocean. However, did you know that the Maldives also has a unique culinary scene? Maldivian food combines various influences, from Indian and Sri Lankan to Middle- Eastern, while making use of fresh seafood, coconut and spices. Here are the top dishes to enjoy while you’re in the Maldives:
Garudhiya is a delicious, clear fish soup made with fish like yellowfin tuna or skipjack. This traditional dish is a local favourite and is known for its mouthwatering aroma. The fish chunks are seasoned with garlic, ginger, pepper and lemon juice before being boiled in a broth seasoned with grated coconut, chilli and curry leaves mixed in, to add heat and additional flavour.
Garudhiya is a simple but hearty dish that can be eaten on its own or paired with steamed rice or Maldivian flatbread (roshi). Visitors are sure to enjoy this comfort food which is not only delicious, but healthy – being low in fats and high in protein. Find it in street food stalls and the best restaurants in Maldives.
Mas Huni is a staple that can be found all across Maldivian islands like Meedhupparu, home to Adaaran Prestige Water Villas. Known for its rich flavour, Mas Huni is generally served at breakfast and translates to "fish and coconut", which perfectly sums up its main ingredients. It combines finely shredded smoked tuna and grated coconut with a dash of lemon and chilli to add tang and spice, and is eaten alongside roshi – traditional Maldivian flatbread.Mas Huni is a staple that can be found all across Maldivian islands like Meedhupparu, home to Adaaran Prestige Water Villas. Known for its rich flavour, Mas Huni is generally served at breakfast and translates to "fish and coconut", which perfectly sums up its main ingredients. It combines finely shredded smoked tuna and grated coconut with a dash of lemon and chilli to add tang and spice, and is eaten alongside roshi – traditional Maldivian flatbread.
This is an interesting variation of the Maldivian flatbread roshi, which is made with the addition of grated coconut into the dough. The coconut gives it a slightly sweet taste and the texture is delightful, with a soft interior and crispy exterior. Huni Roshi can be eaten as an accompaniment with a variety of dishes, and is used to scoop up curries and chutneys.
Most Maldivians enjoy the flatbread with rihaakuru, a spicy fish paste made of tuna. Due to its versatility, it is eaten at every meal, from breakfast to lunch and dinner.
One of the most popular must-try snacks for visitors to the Maldives is Kulhi Boakibaa. This spicy Maldivian fish cake is a delicious treat that is usually served during tea time or on festive occasions. The fish cake is made by finely grinding tuna (the most widely available fish), and mixing it with grated coconut, rice and spices like turmeric powder, as well as grated ginger and curry leaves, to lend it a savoury taste.
The mixture is formed into small cakes or a pancake-shaped slab, and baked until golden brown and crispy. The inside of the cake remains moist and tender, making it a tasty and addictive snack.
This traditional Maldivian dessert is a great way to end any meal. Handulu Bondibai is a creamy rice pudding made with rice, coconut milk, sugar and pandan leaves, which gives it a thick and smooth texture. Cinnamon or cardamom is a wonderful addition to the dessert, and provides a warm and fragrant kick that brings out its flavours more fully.
Served at special events and celebrations like religious festivals and family gatherings, it is one of the best-loved sweet treats in the Maldives.
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.
