How to Eat Like a Local in the Maldives

While the beauty of Maldivian beaches and resort islands are well-documented, few visitors are aware of the country's culinary prowess and the local dishes that are revered by food critics the world over. Whether one is heading to the Maldives on a honeymoon or a family getaway with children, every traveller should take the opportunity to savour some of the top culinary offerings in the Maldivian canon. Here are some tips on how to wine and dine like a local on a tour of the country.

1. Explore Comfort Food

Similar to nearly every other cuisine in the world, there are certain dishes in the Maldivian canon that are considered comfort food. Revered by locals as well as Maldivians abroad, these staple dishes are popular and consumed in nearly every household on a daily basis. When it comes to the ultimate Maldivian comfort food, none are quite as ubiquitous as the Garudhiya soup. Consumed as a meal in and of itself or paired with flatbread, this humble and easy-to-prepare broth is infused with fresh tuna pieces, curry leaves, onions, garlic and a host of spices. Full of the Umami flavour of Miso soup in Japanese cuisine, this light soup is the perfect pick-me-up any time of the day.

2. Dig into Street Food

Those who wish to sample street food in the Maldives must head down to the capital of Male as there are no street food vendors in the resort islands. Lining the streets of the nation's capital, however, one finds kiosks and carts selling Kavaaabu, Bajiya and Theluli Mas while fried yams is another popular street food item in the city. Ideal for a snack or quick meal on the go, street food is served warm and crisp right out of the oven or stove.

3. Cool Down with a Local Dessert

Whether one is based at OZEN Life Maadhoo or any other resort, the chances of finding Saagu Bondibai on a Maldives restaurant menu is quite high. Known for its cooling properties, this delicious dessert made using sago seeds, condensed milk, coconut milk and rosewater is the perfect antidote to the heat of the midday sun. Fresh fruits are also ranked among the country's most popular desserts while banana and pineapple fritters are just as common in local eateries.

4. Sample Local Refreshments

Although alcoholic beverages are not widely available in the Maldives, travellers may be surprised to find that there is a local alcoholic drink that is not banned by law. Made using fermented toddy juice that comes from palm trees, the drink locals call Raa packs in a punch although one is less likely to get hungover afterwards. Those who would rather stick to less intoxicating drinks will find that fresh juices and mocktails are refreshing alternatives that are served in local cafes and restaurants.

5. Snack like a Pro

Maldivians like to consume a hearty meal during specific hours of the day but that doesn't mean they do not snack on "short eats" in between. Snacks in the Maldives mainly consist of savoury baked goods that are similar to samosas in texture. Featuring a filling that includes tuna or other seafood and sometimes eggs, these wholesome snacks are both delicious and affordable. Kulhi Boakibaa, fish cakes and Fihunu Mas are snacks revered by locals while Maldivian rice pudding, although it is technically a dessert, is also consumed during various times of the day.

5. Curry Crazy

With both Indian and Sri Lankan influences, Maldivian cuisine is also full of curries that use coconut milk to create an aromatic gravy that pairs easily with rice or flatbreads. From octopus curry and pumpkin curry to spicy eggplant curry, the large number of creamy curry dishes makes meal times in Maldives a real adventure.