Welcome to a delicious journey through the flavors of the Maldives! Have you ever wondered what people eat in this beautiful island nation surrounded by crystal-clear waters? Well, get ready to tantalize your taste buds as we explore the top 10 must-try foods in the Maldives. From tasty fish curry to crispy Bis Keemiya, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Maldivian cuisine. So, grab a seat at the table and let’s dive into the delectable world of Maldives food!
10.Fish curry
Fish curry is a popular dish in the Maldives, loved by locals and tourists alike. Made with fresh fish caught from the surrounding ocean waters, this dish is bursting with flavor and spices. The fish is cooked in a rich and aromatic curry sauce, typically made with a blend of traditional Maldivian spices like cumin, turmeric, and curry leaves. The result is a mouthwatering dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or traditional Maldivian flatbreads. Whether you’re enjoying it at a local restaurant or as a homemade meal with a Maldivian family, fish curry is a must-try dish that showcases the culinary heritage of the Maldives.
9.Gulha
Next up on our culinary adventure in the Maldives is Gulha! Gulha is a delightful snack that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings any time of day. These bite-sized treats are made from a mixture of fish, coconut, onions, and spices, all wrapped in a dough made from flour and water. The mixture is then shaped into small balls and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside. The result is a flavorful and crunchy snack that’s bursting with the tastes of the Maldives. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a quick snack on the go, Gulha is sure to leave you wanting more.
8.Mas Huni
Maldivian breakfast dish that’s loved by locals for its simplicity and bold flavors. It’s made by mixing shredded tuna with grated coconut, diced onions, finely chopped green chilies, and a squeeze of tangy lime juice. This mixture is then served with flatbread known as roshi or chapati, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for starting your day off right. The combination of savory tuna, sweet coconut, and spicy chilies creates a harmonious blend of flavors that’s truly unique to the Maldives. Whether enjoyed by the beach or in the comfort of your own home, Mas Huni is a breakfast dish that’s sure to leave you feeling energized and ready to take on the day.
7.Maldivian Live Lobster
Ah, the Maldivian Live Lobster – a true seafood delight! In the Maldives, fresh seafood is abundant, and the live lobster is no exception. This exquisite dish features succulent lobster, sourced straight from the pristine waters surrounding the islands. The lobsters are often grilled or steamed to perfection, allowing their natural flavors to shine through. Whether you’re dining at a beachside restaurant or enjoying a meal at a local seafood market, you can expect the Maldivian Live Lobster to be a highlight of your culinary experience. With its tender meat and delicate flavor, it’s no wonder why this dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
6.Masroshi
Masroshi is a popular Maldivian snack that’s perfect for satisfying your hunger between meals. It consists of a thin, flaky pastry filled with a savory mixture of spiced tuna, grated coconut, onions, and curry leaves. The pastry is then folded and sealed before being cooked on a hot griddle until golden brown and crispy. The result is a mouthwatering snack that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
Masroshi is often enjoyed as a quick bite on the go or as a tasty appetizer before a larger meal. Its combination of savory tuna, sweet coconut, and aromatic spices makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re enjoying it at a local café or as a homemade treat with friends, Masroshi is sure to leave you craving more.
5.Saagu Bondibai
Saagu Bondibai is a traditional Maldivian dish that offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. This hearty stew features tender chunks of meat, often beef or lamb, cooked in a rich and fragrant coconut milk broth. The dish is infused with a medley of spices, including cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, giving it a warm and aromatic aroma.
Saagu Bondibai is often served alongside steamed rice or traditional Maldivian flatbreads, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed at a local restaurant or prepared at home with loved ones, this dish is sure to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. With its creamy coconut base and bold spice profile, Saagu Bondibai is a must-try for anyone exploring the culinary delights of the Maldives.
4.Reef Fish Cutlets
Let’s dive into the flavorful world of Reef Fish Cutlets! In the Maldives, where the ocean is teeming with an abundance of marine life, seafood takes center stage in many dishes. Reef Fish Cutlets are a prime example of the island’s culinary prowess when it comes to seafood. To make Reef Fish Cutlets, fresh reef fish is finely minced and mixed with an array of aromatic spices, including garlic, ginger, and chili. The mixture is then shaped into small patties, coated with breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior, and fried until golden brown. The result is a tantalizing seafood delicacy that’s crispy on the outside and moist and flavorful on the inside.
3.Bis Keemiya
Now, let’s explore the savory delight of Bis Keemiya! Bis Keemiya is a popular snack in the Maldives, beloved for its crispy pastry exterior and flavorful filling. This delectable treat is similar to a samosa, but with a unique Maldivian twist.Bis Keemiya is often enjoyed as a quick bite on the go or as a tasty appetizer during gatherings and celebrations. Its combination of flaky pastry and savory filling makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether enjoyed hot out of the fryer or at room temperature, Bis Keemiya is sure to delight your taste buds.
2.Kulhi Boakibaa
Kulhi Boakibaa is a traditional Maldivian dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. It’s a type of fish cake made from minced tuna, coconut, rice, and aromatic spices.Kulhi Boakibaa is often served as a snack or appetizer, either on its own or accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a favorite dish for gatherings and special occasions in the Maldives. Whether enjoyed at a local restaurant or as a homemade treat, Kulhi Boakibaa is sure to leave you craving more of the island’s culinary delights.
1.Aluvi Boakibaa
Last but certainly not least, let’s explore the delectable flavors of Aluvi Boakibaa! Aluvi Boakibaa is a beloved Maldivian dish that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings for something hearty and flavorful. It’s a type of fish cake similar to Kulhi Boakibaa but with a unique twist.
To prepare Aluvi Boakibaa, minced tuna is combined with grated cassava (also known as aluvi), coconut, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of aromatic spices. The mixture is then shaped into patties and fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while still tender and moist on the inside.
Aluvi Boakibaa is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, served alongside spicy sauces or chutneys for dipping. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite dish for gatherings, celebrations, and everyday meals in the Maldives. Whether enjoyed at a local restaurant or prepared at home with love, Aluvi Boakibaa is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. With its unique combination of ingredients and bold flavors, it’s no wonder why Aluvi Boakibaa tops the list of must-try foods in the Maldives.