Discovering Maldivian Cuisine : Must-try Maldivian Culinary Delights

The Maldives, with its sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters, isn’t just a feast for the eyes but also a culinary adventure that mirrors the country’s rich history and cultural diversity. Maldivian cuisine is a delightful fusion of South Indian, Sri Lankan, Arab, and Indonesian flavours, offering a unique and distinguished culinary experience.

At the heart of Maldivian cuisine is its abundant marine life, especially tuna, prepared in various ways – smoked, grilled, or sun-dried. Tuna stars in dishes like mas huni, a flavourful mix of flaked fish, coconut, onion, and chilli.

Coconut is another kitchen essential, used in savoury and sweet dishes alike. Coconut milk and grated coconut add depth and richness to curries, rice, and snacks. Also, rice, a meal staple, often accompanies curries and stews like kandu kukulhu (rice with chicken and spices) and garudhiya (a fish broth-based dish with rice).

Here’s a list of must-try Maldivian dishes to add to your bucket list:

1. Mas Huni

Start your day with this iconic breakfast dish of shredded smoked tuna mixed with grated coconut, onions, and chillies, served with roshi, a flatbread.

2. Garudhiya

Try this traditional fish soup made with tuna, water, salt, lime, rice, onion, and chillies, letting the natural flavours of the fish shine.

3. Bis Keemiya

Grab a bite of these savoury pastries filled with a mix of tuna, coconut, and spices, perfect for a quick and satisfying snack.

4. Masroshi

Treat yourself to this popular snack made by stuffing a thin bread-like dough with a mixture of fish, grated coconut, onion, and spices, then fried to crispy perfection.

5. Rihaakuru

Rihaakuru is a traditional Maldivian dish, which is thick brown fish paste, made from tuna after prolonged heating and ideally served with rice or roshi.

6. Fihunu Mas

Indulge in the rich and smoky flavour of grilled fish marinated in a blend of spices, coconut milk, and other ingredients, often served with rice.

7. Dhon Riha

This curry is made with tender fish pieces cooked in a fragrant coconut milk sauce, flavoured with spices like cumin, cardamom, and curry leaves.

8. Hedhikaa

Share and enjoy a variety of Maldivian snacks and appetizers, including keemia (fish rolls), bajiya (spiced fish pastries), and gulha (fish balls).

9. Rihaakuru Bondibai

Comfort yourself with this fish paste cooked with rice and other ingredients, creating a hearty one-pot meal.

10. Boshi Mashuni

Refresh yourself with this salad made with finely chopped ingredients like tuna, coconut, onion, and chillies, ideal for a light and flavourful meal on a hot day.

When you visit the Maldives, be sure to indulge in these must-try dishes and experience the true essence of the Maldives. From the rich flavours of the sea to the aromatic spices and fresh ingredients, Maldivian cuisine is a reflection of the country’s vibrant culture and history and offers a culinary experience as diverse and beautiful as the islands themselves.