Although most tourists choose to holiday in the Maldives for its stunning beaches, the archipelago’s culinary tradition is another attribute holidaymakers will relish during a trip to the islands. Here’s a list of tasty local treats that should be on everyone’s dining bucket list.
1. Garudhiya
As a traditional broth that’s prepared in nearly every Maldivian household on a regular basis, Garudhiya is an aromatic starter that seafood fanatics will immediately warm up to. Made using tuna fish cubes, this slow cooked broth seasoned with curry leaves, chillies, onions, and a pinch of turmeric exudes the flavour of the sea in all its complexity. A dash of lime juice is added to the soup before it is served with a cup of rice or a local flatbread known as “roshi.”
2. Grilled Seafood
Whether you’re enjoying a meal at the Sea Grill restaurant, which is part of Dusit Thani Maldives, or any other popular restaurants in Maldives, ordering a serving of grilled seafood is a must when vacationing in the paradise islands. With easy access to fresh seafood, visitors will find that everything from reef fish and tiger prawns to red snappers and mussels is grilled to perfection at local restaurants. Juicy and succulent, these grilled seafood delights can be consumed as a starter or as a main meal, depending on your preference and the portion sizes.
3. Mas Huni
This beloved breakfast dish that combines smoked tuna with freshly grated coconut is another winner that fans of sambals and salsas shouldn’t pass up. Often paired with a piping hot roshi bread, right out of the oven, Mas Huni’s characteristic crunchy texture owes much to the onions and capsicums that are added during the cooking process. Seasoned with salt and lemon juice, Mas Huni is also served with steamed rice and other side dishes in local homes.
4. Bis Keemiya
Often compared to Samosas and spring rolls, Bis Keemiya is a Maldivian snack that’s ubiquitous in the streets of Male and the city’s best bakeries. This fried pastry, which features boiled tuna fish and sautéed cabbage, is a light and nutritious snack option, as hard-boiled eggs and cheese are also part of its filling. Spicy in flavour, it is another dish that celebrates the local culinary tradition’s love for all things tuna.
5. Boshi Mashuni
Often listed as Banana Flower Salad in local restaurant menus, this is a vegan Maldivian dish that’s prepared fresh. Made with blanched banana flowers that are julienned to small portions, this “salad” also features fresh coconut shavings, onions, and a host of spices ( cumin, turmeric) and herbs.. Maldivian chillies are also added before the mixture is seasoned with lemon juice to bring all the disparate flavours of Bosh Mashruni together.
6. Dhonkeyo Kajuru
Travellers with a sweet tooth and a love of banana-centric desserts must sample this decadent treat during a getaway in the Maldives. Although Dhonkeyo Kajuru is similar to banana pancakes, this Maldivian dish is decidedly sweeter and crispier as morsels of banana are deep-fried in a wheat flour batter. Vanilla essence is also added to the banana puree before it is formed into balls, as it gives the sugary delight its unique fragrance.
7. Saagu Bondibai
This sago pudding is another classic Maldivian dessert that’s a staple at family events and grand celebrations. Known to possess cooling properties, sago seeds are soaked and boiled to create this creamy dessert that’s also infused with condensed milk and rose water.
