How to Embark on a Culinary Journey: Discovering the Authentic Taste of Local Maldivian Cuisine

The Maldives is not just a great spot for a luxury tropical vacation, it’s also a foodie paradise with delicious local cuisine! Drawing influences from cultures in South Asia and the Middle East, Maldivian food offers a taste sensation for foodies. Sampling the local cuisine should be on your bucket list if you’re visiting this Indian Ocean island nation. Here is a guide to experiencing the best of traditional Maldivian food:

Discover the basics

Maldivian cuisine has three main ingredients that make an appearance in most dishes: fish, coconut and rice. Various types of fish - tuna, in particular, are plentiful in the seas around the Maldives and form the base of many dishes. Coconut grows widely on the islands, making it a significant part of Maldivian cuisine. Coconut is used in different ways, whether grated, in milk form as a base for curries, or as oil for frying. It adds flavour and richness to various recipes. Rice is the staple at most meals, and is served with a host of other dishes.

One of the best-loved breakfasts in the Maldives is Mas Huni, a delicious combination of shredded tuna, grated coconut, onion, and chilli which is generally eaten with roshi (flatbread). With its great balance of flavours and fresh ingredients, this is a wonderful introduction to Maldivian cuisine and a good way to start your day. Visitors can find this dish served at luxury resorts like Kuda Villingili and local eateries.

Garudhiya is another popular dish, available at the best restaurant in the Maldives to humble street food stalls. This aromatic fish broth contains chilli, lime and onions and is eaten with rice on the side. It also has a great umami flavour and is perfect for those who enjoy clear fish soups like miso.  

Spices and seafood

Maldivian cuisine uses local spices that add a kick to different dishes. Some of the most important spices are cumin, curry leaves, turmeric and chilli which add warmth and heat. While the spices used are not as intense as in Indian or Sri Lankan cuisine, they still add plenty of flavour.

Fihunu Mas is a delicious fish dish that is marinated in a spice mix of garlic, chilli, and turmeric before being grilled over an open flame. When the fish becomes smoky on the outside, it is topped off with a squeeze of lime, and is ready to eat!

If you like curries, Maldivian fish curry should certainly be on your list of must-try foods. The curry is rich and creamy thanks to the coconut milk base, and mild spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom give it a distinct flavour. The fish used is usually tuna, however, you will also find variations like seafood and chicken. Flatbread or rice is served to soak up the delicious curry.

Sample the street food

If you want to taste the authentic flavours of the Maldives, head to the street food outlets. You’ll find a variety of snacks around the islands that offer a glimpse into its cuisine and culture. Known as short eats or hedhikaa, they are usually served with tea.

Some of the popular hedhikaa include gulha (fried fish balls stuffed with tuna and coconut), bajiya (pastry filled with fish, coconut, and onions), and keemia (fried fish rolls). These snacks offer a great combination of different textures, being crispy on the outside and soft and savoury on the inside. Theluli mas is another much-loved snack sold by street vendors. This deep-fried fish coated in chilli and garlic is crunchy, spicy and full of flavour.

Maldivian desserts

Your culinary journey wouldn’t be complete without sampling Maldivian desserts and sweets. They often feature coconut and tropical fruits, and are light and appetising. One of the most popular desserts is bondi, made from coconut, sugar, and rice flour. These coconut treats are not too sweet and are often served with tea.

For a richer dessert, try foni boakiba. This traditional coconut rice cake is usually flavoured with cardamom and served during special occasions and festivals. However, they can be found in some local eateries as well.

Saagu bondibai is another popular treat. This is a creamy sago pudding made with coconut milk and seasoned with rose water and cardamom. It’s a comforting dish that offers a taste of the island’s authentic flavours.