The beauty of Maldivian cuisine is that it’s built on the most simple ingredients: fish, rice and coconut. The cuisine draws inspiration from its neighbouring India and Sri Lanka, as well as Arabic nations. A rich blend of spices glues everything together and brings about the distinct flavours the Maldivian dishes are famous for. Here are some of the best dishes.

Maldivian Fish Curry (Mas Riha)

Start your culinary journey with the heart and soul of Maldivian cuisine – fish. Maldivian Fish Curry, known locally as Mas Riha, is a fragrant and flavorful dish made with tuna. The fish is simmered in a rich coconut milk-based gravy infused with aromatic spices like curry leaves and pandan leaves. Served with rice, it’s a true taste of Maldivian comfort.

Garudiya

A delicious fish broth made with freshly caught fish, often skipjack tuna, is boiled with salt, water, and a handful of aromatic herbs. Chilli, onion and basil are occasional herbs used to flavour the broth but they usually tend to keep the recipe simple. It’s a light yet nourishing soup commonly enjoyed for breakfast, paired with freshly baked flatbreads known as roshi.

Hedhikaa (Maldivian Snacks)

Explore the vibrant world of Maldivian snacks, known as Hedhikaa, which includes delectable treats like Bajiya (fish or vegetable-filled pastries), Gulha (doughnut-shaped snacks), and Keemia (deep-fried fish rolls). These snacks are often served at teatime or as appetizers.

Fresh Seafood Galore

Fresh Seafood Galore
Fresh Seafood Galore – Photo by Francesco Ungaro on Unsplash

Given its island location, the Maldives boasts an abundance of seafood. Enjoy grilled lobster, succulent prawns, and a variety of fish prepared in numerous styles – from barbecued to curried – at beachfront restaurants under the stars. Whether you enjoy Maldives all-inclusive packages at properties such as OZEN by Atmosphere at Maadhoo or even other local restaurants, you’ll be enjoying the freshest seafood prepared with quality ingredients to create succulent dishes.