Joanna James
The Maldives is not just about turquoise waters and luxurious resorts; it’s a culinary paradise offering unique dishes and beverages that reflect its vibrant culture and fresh coastal produce. Here’s a guide to the five must-try dishes and drinks that will tantalise your taste buds.
Mas Huni is a staple breakfast dish in the Maldives and an ideal way to start your day. This delightful mix of finely shredded tuna, grated coconut, onions, and chilli is traditionally served with roshi—a flatbread resembling Indian roti. Light yet flavourful, the dish highlights the Maldivian affinity for fresh seafood and bold, aromatic ingredients.
Maldives restaurants serve Mas Huni as part of breakfast buffets, often accompanied by tropical fruits and freshly brewed tea. This dish is a perfect cultural representative of the Maldives, and is a must-try for its simplicity and authenticity.
Garudhiya is a traditional Maldivian tuna soup that showcases the nation’s deep love for seafood. The broth is clear, savoury, and subtly seasoned with lime, curry leaves, and onions. Served hot with steamed rice, fried fish, and lonumirus (a spicy chilli paste), Garudhiya offers a comforting yet distinctive taste of Maldivian home cooking.
Local eateries will have perfected the recipe for Garudhiya, as it gets passed down generations, each adding their flair to this beautiful dish. With every bite, you’ll savour the essence of the islands and the simplicity of their culinary traditions.
Freshly caught fish, often marinated with a blend of Maldivian spices, is grilled to perfection in this dish. Fihunu Mas epitomises the Maldives' reliance on the bounty of the sea and their mastery in blending spices. The chargrilled aroma pairs beautifully with the tender, flavourful fish.
Baros Maldives, renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, serves some of the finest Fihunu Mas in the region. With its serene beachside setting and expert chefs, enjoying this dish elevates the experience from a simple meal to a memorable dining event. Pair it with a glass of chilled white wine for an indulgent treat.
Kulhi Boakibaa is a savoury fish cake made with tuna, coconut, and rice. This versatile snack is popular during festivals and as a teatime treat. The texture is soft yet firm, with flavours that are mild but satisfying.
You’ll find Kulhi Boakibaa in markets, local bakeries, and high-end resorts alike. It's often served alongside sweet coconut sanbusa or savoury bites, making it a crowd-pleaser for locals and tourists. A warm slice of Kulhi Boakibaa paired with tropical fruit juice is a quintessential Maldivian experience.
No visit to the Maldives is complete without indulging in the island’s refreshing drinks. With a focus on tropical ingredients like coconut, mango, and passion fruit, Maldivian beverages are as vibrant as their surroundings.
One standout is the Coconut Kiss, a mocktail blending fresh coconut water, cream, and pineapple juice. For those who enjoy a tipple, the Dhivehi Sunset cocktail, crafted with rum, lime, and papaya, is a must-try.
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.
