If you are looking to fully experience the best of the Maldives, then no trip would be complete without sampling its traditional food! Here are some insights into the local cuisine.
The Basics
The local dishes have been influenced by neighbouring nations like Sri Lanka and India while having their distinctive characteristics too. Generally, traditional dishes are based on three key components which are fish, starches and coconut. In the Maldives, luxury resorts and island eateries will offer such dishes like those given below.
Mas Huni
An ever-popular breakfast dish, mas huni is made using shredded tuna which is mixed with onions, grated coconuts and lime; it is generally eaten with an unleavened bread called roshi. Apart from offering this dish, properties like Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences have cooking classes where you can learn to make it too!
Tuna Curries
Tuna is ever-present in traditional cuisine including in spicy curries which are favoured by the locals. Kandu kukulhu and kulhi mas are two such tuna-based curries that one can look to try; made with coconut milk and various spices, these flavour-filled dishes go perfectly with some jasmine rice.
Garudhiya
This well-known dish is a kind of fish broth that is best eaten hot. It consists of fresh or cured Maldivian tuna, a special rihaakuru broth, onion, chillies and lime. The taste is fresh and zesty and it is bound to become another of your foodie favs when dining at restaurants in Maldives.
