Discovering the cuisine of the Maldives unveils a vibrant tapestry woven from the bounty of the Indian Ocean. This archipelago nation’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its stunning coral atolls, blending influences from Indian, Sri Lankan, Arabic, and Oriental traditions. At the heart of Maldivian cuisine are fresh seafood delicacies, infused with coconut, spices, and aromatic herbs.

Photo by MariaPolna form PxHere

Keemiyaa Cuisine

Prepared with a blend of curry leaves, garlic, ginger, Scotch Bonnet peppers, mustard seeds, and onions cooked in oil and seasoned with salt, this dish incorporates peas for added texture. The spices and tuna are mixed together before sautéing with curry, garlic, oil, and onions separately. The mixture is then wrapped in handmade bread dough and deep-fried to achieve a perfect crispy exterior. This flavorful creation is a delightful choice for any meal!

Huni Roshi

Unlike typical flatbreads, this one incorporates grated fresh coconut, lending a subtly sweet flavor often associated with Maldivian desserts but also enjoyed as part of regular meals. The dough, mixed with salt and coconut, is rolled into balls and cooked on a pan until golden brown. This versatile flatbread complements both sweet and savory dishes and can even be filled like a wrap with various ingredients

Fish Curry

Typically prepared using varieties like frigate tuna, smoked fish, yellowfin tuna, skipjack tuna, and bigeye scad, this traditional island dish may include other local fish depending on the establishment. The fish is cooked with a rich blend of coconut milk or condensed milk, along with curry leaves, onions, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, turmeric, and cumin, creating a flavorful symphony simmered to mouthwatering perfection. Many restaurants in the Maldives will have their own variation – explore places like the Naladhu Private Island Maldives to really figure out the variants!

Kukulhu Riha

If fish isn’t your preference, this dish offers a chicken alternative that’s popular for special occasions in the Maldives. Kukulhu Riha bursts with robust flavors that can range from mildly spiced to boldly seasoned, depending on the chef’s preference. Maldivians typically serve this dish with salads, snacks, or other sides, enhancing its local appeal with a medley of spices, peppers, and aromatic curries. The chicken is marinated and gently simmered in coconut milk, water, onions, and fragrant pandan leaves.