What Are Some Must-Try Dishes During Your Maldivian Holiday?

Located south of Sri Lanka, the Maldives showcases a unique culinary landscape, shaped by the flavours of the islands and its neighbours. With its abundant marine life, tropical flora and heritage of sea trade, local cuisine is a delightful medley of culture and environment. Discover the influences of Arab traders, South Asian spices and the stories of a 3,000-year-old history, with the must-try dishes to add to your holiday menu. 

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Taste The Tuna 

Maldivian tuna is the heart and soul of the islands, a staple ingredient used in local cuisine for centuries. The pelagic fish, along with Barracuda, can be found in some of the beloved classics, including Garudhiya, Mas Huni and several coconut curries. To savour tuna in its purest form, look no further than Garudhiya, an integral part of Maldivian life, and found at breakfast tables across the islands for generations. This fragrant, warm soup features a simple concoction designed around the tuna, the star of the show. Fresh cuts of yellowfin tuna, blue bonito or frigate tuna are filleted in a traditional pattern, and left to simmer in a simple salty broth. The result, often seasoned with curry leaves, chillies, onions and lime juice, is a comforting, seafood broth that highlights the essence of the seas. The soup is sometimes cooked in coconut milk, transforming into a curry that adds a rich depth to the broth and its simple ingredients. Mas Huni is another beloved tuna-based breakfast, typically accompanied by a serving of roshi, or Maldivian flatbread. Smoked, shredded tuna is tossed with grated coconut, onions, fresh chillies and lime juice, coming together to create a refreshingly light seafood salad. This dish can be found at virtually any resort or restaurant serving local food, even making its way into fine dining in Maldives, with contemporary versions shaped by fusion influences. Adaaran Prestige Water Villas Meedupparu serves up an innovative version of the dish, featuring expertly made mas huni wrapped in a delightful, crunchy tortilla. 

Reef Fish: A New Delicacy 

Although the larger, pelagic fish remains a favourite amongst local cuisine, newer chefs and hotels have begun to seek inspiration from the abundant coral reefs fringing the islands. Reef fish have become a popular delicacy, making their way into classic Maldivian dishes and snacks with a variety, from humpback red snappers to rainbow runners. For a quick bite to eat, tandoor reef fish cutlets, similar to the tuna version, are crispy, golden-brown patties made from minced reef fish and seasoned with masala spices, often mixed with potatoes and herbs. These cutlets are typically served as a snack or appetiser, perfect for those looking to enjoy the local catch in a unique format. Savour one of these cutlets at a local market in Malé or the nearest local island to your resort. Another delectable option is a simple, reef fish salad, a light and refreshing dish that combines chunks of fresh snapper meat with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a zesty dressing. The fish is also often found grilled, infused with just lemon juice and chilli. 

Maldivian Tapas, Or "Hedhikaa"

As is true with almost any culture, short eats, or Maldivian hedhikaa, are an essential part of the local diet. These snacks, both sweet and savoury, offer a bite-sized taste of the islands' flavours. One of the most popular go-to snacks, gulha are small, stuffed dough balls deep-fried to perfection, and filled with shredded tuna, coconut and turmeric. Their crispy exterior and flavourful filling make them an iconic street food item, often served with a cup of afternoon tea. Bis Keemiya is another delightful option, a Maldivian samosa made from thin pastry wraps that envelop a mixture of spiced fish, hard-boiled eggs, and onions, deep-fried until golden. These treats are often served with a side of chilli sauce, although the pastries pack enough flavour to be equally enjoyable on their own. For a sweeter snack, Cream Jehi Banas are delightful cream buns with a Maldivian twist. These soft, brioche buns sandwich a layer of sweetened condensed milk, tinted with pink or red food colouring for the iconic look. Folhi, or coconut pancakes, are another sweet addition to the hedhikaa spread — pancakes made from rice flour and coconut are served with honey or caramelised bananas, making them a perfect way to end your Maldivian tapas experience.

The Dessert Menu 

Although they can be found within selections of hedhikaa, Maldivian desserts reflect the tropical island's flavours, with an emphasis on coconut and rice. Aluvi Boakibaa is a traditional coconut cake made with rice flour, coconut, and a touch of cardamom, baked to a delightful golden hue. Its moist texture and sweet flavour make it a beloved treat among locals.Similarly, Handulu Bondibai, a rich, sago coconut milk pudding, is another dessert that shouldn't be missed. This creamy delight is often flavoured with cardamom and rose water,  served chilled at most festivals and occasions while providing a refreshing end to any meal.