Embark on a culinary journey to the enchanting Maldives, where the vibrant tapestry of flavors mirrors the breathtaking beauty of its turquoise waters and pristine white-sand beaches. Maldivian cuisine, deeply rooted in the archipelago’s rich cultural heritage, is a fascinating blend of influences from India, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East. As you explore the gastronomic wonders of the Maldives, you’ll encounter an array of seafood delicacies that showcase the bounty of the Indian Ocean.

A brief history

The islanders ingeniously centred their cuisine around three primarily abundantly available ingredients and their byproducts: coconut, fish, and various forms of starch. Traditional cooking methods, passed down through generations, remain integral to the preparation of many of these classic dishes. Furthermore, the thriving trade connections with Africa and the subcontinent introduced non-native ingredients to the islands.

Base ingredients

The coastal paradise of the Maldives, with its sprawling 600-kilometre shoreline, is not only blessed with abundant fish but also a myriad of other ingredients that define its unique culinary landscape. Coconut, a ubiquitous presence, takes on various roles in Maldivian gastronomy. Tubers such as taro, sweet potato, and cassava, along with versatile rice, complement fried fish and curries in Maldivian households, and in resorts such as the Ozen Reserve Bolifushi.

Shorteats/Baked goods

Traditionally adored as tea-time treats, the bite-sized sweet and savoury delights, locally referred to as Hedhika, have transcended their origins and can now be savoured at the lively roadside eateries in Malé and some of the finest dining establishments on the resort islands of the Maldives. Among these, Gulha, featuring fish balls filled with a delectable mixture of tuna and coconut, stands out as the most widely embraced finger food.

Desserts

Cassava Coconut Cake
Cassava Coconut Cake – Image via Flickr

In Maldivian confections, the indigenous coconut takes on a creative role, imparting a refreshingly distinctive texture and flavour to sweets. One beloved treat, cherished by both locals and visitors, is aluvi boakiba. Comprising cassava and coconut, this cake achieves a delightful harmony between its sweetness and buttery consistency, earning it popularity as a favoured snack, and can be found any restaurant in the Maldives.