Joanna James
If you are a foodie heading to the Maldives, get ready for delectable cuisine that combines fresh seafood, tropical ingredients, and island spices in delicious ways. From savoury breakfasts to unique local beverages, these dishes will capture your taste buds and leave them wanting more!
Start your day as a local might with Mas Huni, a breakfast favourite. This dish combines shredded fresh tuna with grated coconut, chillies, onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime. Usually eaten with warm roshi (a type of flatbread), it’s a perfect blend of savoury flavours that will be satisfying and fill you up for a day of relaxation, adventure or a bit of both!
For a taste of traditional fare, try Garudhiya, a fragrant fish soup loved by locals and served at homes as well as cafes and the best restaurants in Maldives. It’s made with fresh tuna, water, salt, garlic, curry leaves and a dash of chilli, bringing out the natural taste of the fish. Served with fresh lime and rice or roshi, this soup is both comforting and refreshingly light, making it a true Maldivian classic.
Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has plenty to offer seafood lovers. Don’t miss a grilled seafood experience by the shore, where fresh fish, prawns, and lobster are cooked to perfection over open flames. Some resorts such as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives offer beach BBQs, so you can enjoy the heavenly seafood flavours amidst stunning sunset views for an unforgettable island dining experience!
Fish curry is a Maldivian staple, creamy and filled with aromatic spices. Using local fish like skipjack or yellowfin tuna, such curries are bursting with coconut-based richness. You get different variations as well such as Mas Riha and Kandu Kukulhu which are both popular. Enjoy such culinary creations with vegetable curries and a side of rice or roshi for an authentic meal.
For something unique, sample Boshi Mashuni, a refreshing salad made from crunchy banana flowers mixed with fresh coconut. Turmeric, cumin, and lime add to the unique flavours of this dish, while a touch of chilli brings just the right amount of heat. Suffice it to say, this combination of textures and tastes makes for a deliciously healthy dish to try on your getaway!
Maldivian desserts are all about tropical flavours, and Saagu Bondibai, or sago pudding, is a perfect example. This creamy pudding made from sago pearls and coconut milk is enhanced with condensed milk, cardamom, and rose essence. It’s smooth, rich, and utterly satisfying, especially if you are looking for a unique vegetarian dessert.
Maldivians love their Sai or tea, so join in on the tradition with a cup of Kalhu Sai (black tea) or Kiru Sai (milk tea). It is often enjoyed with sweet or salty bites, and it’s a great way to unwind during the day. Sip slowly and also enjoy it with breakfast or teatime snacks as you chat with family, friends or locals for a genuine Maldivian experience.
On island resorts where it's permitted to serve alcoholic beverages, you can try special tropical cocktails like the 'Kandooma Dream,' which mixes vodka, Baileys, Kahlúa, pineapple juice and coconut cream. For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, mocktails like the fruity 'Sea Breeze,' made with strawberries, mango and lime capture the tropical vibe perfectly!
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.
