The Maldives is not just a paradise for sunseekers and marine enthusiasts; it’s also a hidden gem for food lovers. This stunning archipelago offers a unique blend of flavours shaped by its rich cultural heritage, Indian Ocean location, and abundant seafood. Maldivian cuisine, or Dhivehi cuisine, is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and vibrant tropical produce. Embark on a culinary journey through the Maldives and discover the dishes and flavours you simply must savour during your visit.

Traditional Maldivian Breakfast: Mas Huni

Start your culinary exploration with the quintessential Maldivian breakfast, Mas Huni. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of shredded smoked tuna mixed with fresh coconut, onions, and chillies, served with warm, freshly baked flatbread known as “roshi.” Often enjoyed with a cup of hot black tea, Mas Huni is a staple in Maldivian households and provides a delightful introduction to the island’s reliance on fish and coconut. The freshness of the ingredients and the unique combination of flavours make it a memorable start to your day in the Maldives.

Savoring Maldivian Seafood

Seafood is the heart of Maldivian cuisine, and no visit is complete without sampling the local fish delicacies served in Maldives’ best restaurants. Tuna, in particular, is the most popular catch and features prominently in many dishes, including grilled, smoked, or sun-dried varieties. One must-try dish is “Garudhiya,” a traditional Maldivian fish soup made with tuna, water, salt, and spices, served with rice, lime, onions, and chilli. For something more indulgent, “Fihunu Mas” – grilled fish marinated with chilli, lime, and a blend of Maldivian spices – offers a deliciously spicy taste of local flavours. Don’t miss out on sampling reef fish, lobster, crab, and squid, often prepared with minimal seasoning to highlight their fresh flavours.

Relishing Maldivian Curries

Maldivian curries are aromatic and rich, often featuring coconut milk, curry leaves, and a medley of spices. “Rihaakuru,” a thick fish paste made from tuna, is a local favourite used in many curries to enhance their depth of flavour. For a taste of something unique, try “Kukulhu Riha,” a fragrant chicken curry with notes of cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. Alternatively, “Mas Riha,” a tuna curry with coconut milk, is a popular option that showcases the Maldivian love for seafood and spice. These curries are usually served with steamed rice, flatbreads, or “Faaroshi,” crispy papadums that add texture and crunch to the meal.

Indulging in Local Snacks: Hedhikaa

The Maldives has a variety of traditional snacks known as “Hedhikaa,” which are perfect for a light bite or afternoon tea. These savoury treats are typically made with fish, coconut, and spices, offering a glimpse into local flavours in small, delectable bites. Popular options include “Gulha,” small fried dumplings filled with smoked tuna, coconut, and onions, and “Bajiya,” pastries stuffed with fish, coconut, and curry leaves. Another must-try is “Fihunu Bambukeyo,” or breadfruit chips, which provide a crispy and mildly sweet snack option. Enjoy them at local tea shops, known as “Sai hotaa,” or small cafes scattered across the islands.

Sweet Treats and Desserts

Sago pudding – Image via Pxhere

Maldivian desserts often highlight the islands’ abundance of tropical fruits and coconut. “Saagu Bondibai,” a sago pudding made with coconut milk, sugar, and cardamom, is a popular dessert that offers a creamy and fragrant finish to a meal. For something more unique, try “Huni Hakuru Folhi,” a coconut cake made with grated coconut, jaggery, and flour, or “Foni Boakibaa,” a dense and sweet coconut rice cake. Fresh tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and banana are also frequently served, often with a drizzle of local honey, offering a refreshing and naturally sweet end to a culinary adventure. You can sample all these delights at luxury resort islands such as Saii Lagoon Maldives.