Maldives is a tropical paradise famous for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and luxurious resorts, but beyond the stunning views, Maldives is also a foodie’s dream!
The island nation has a rich culinary culture, which is a blend of Indian, Sri Lankan, Arabic, and African influences. The food in the Maldives is known for its unique and bold flavours, using fresh seafood and locally grown ingredients.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best Maldivian food, so you can make the most of your culinary adventures when you visit this tropical paradise.
Garudhiya
Garudhiya is a staple food in Maldivian cuisine, a must-try for any food lover visiting the islands.
It is a traditional Maldivian soup made with tuna fish and spices. The dish is known for its rich and flavourful broth, that is made by simmering tuna, onion, salt and curry leaves in water. The dish is usually served with rice, lime and chili, which can be added according to taste. The soup is not only delicious but also healthy, as it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients found in fish.
Garudhiya is light and flavourful – a perfect introduction to Maldivian cuisine!
Mas Huni
Mas Huni is a typical breakfast dish that is popular in the Maldives. It is the perfect breakfast to start your day of island adventures or relaxation.
Mas Huni is made by mixing tuna, onion, grated coconut, and chili, and is typically served with a flatbread or roshi. It is a tasty and filling dish that is a staple in Maldivian cuisine and is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike.
Gulha
Gulha is a popular snack found in most Maldivian cafés and tea houses, typically eaten with a cup of hot sweetened tea. It is a bite-size dumpling filled with a spicy mixture of tuna, onion, coconut, lime and other spices, which is deep-fried until crispy.
A favourite with locals, gulha is a tasty treat not to be missed if you visit a Maldivian café.
Bajiya
Bajiya, a Maldivian samosa is a must-try savoury tea-time treat. It consists of a spicy tuna filling encased within triangular pastry and deep fried until golden brown.
Bajiyas are a crunchy snack found in Maldivian tea houses alongside other popular Maldivian short eats.
Boakibaa
Boakibaa is another snack which can be found in many Maldivian tea shops.
There are two main types; savoury and sweet. The savoury version consists of tuna, onion, coconut, rice and spices which are baked into a spicy fish cake.
There are many different types of sweet Boakibaa, most of which are made from sweetened milk. The texture of sweet Boakibaa is so soft that it melts in your mouth.
Saagu Bondibai
Saagu Bondibai is one of the most popular dessert dishes in the Maldives.
It is made from sago pearls, coconut milk, and sugar and is often garnished with tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple, which add a fruity and tropical flavour to the dessert.
Saagu Bondibai is a sweet and creamy dessert usually served cold, making it perfect for hot days on the beach.
Rihaakuru
Rihaakuru is a traditional Maldivian condiment known for its strong aroma and taste.
Combined with onions and lime juice, it can be eaten with rice or a flatbread/roshi or used in a variety of other Maldivian dishes.
Made with tuna fish, salt, and water, the mixture is boiled and then simmered on a low heat for many hours until it becomes a thick, concentrated paste, which is typically dark brown in colour. Rihaakuru has a strong and pungent, savoury flavour that adds depth and complexity to any dish it’s used in.
Despite its strong aroma and taste, Rihaakuru is a must-try for those looking to experience the true flavours of Maldivian cuisine.
Masroshi
Masroshi is a popular Maldivian snack that consists of a savoury filling wrapped in a thin layer of dough and cooked on a skillet until both sides are golden brown in colour.
The filling typically consists of tuna, grated coconut, onions, and spices. Masroshi is a popular street food and can be found in many local food stalls and restaurants. The dish is often served with chili sauce or tomato ketchup and is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
The combination of the crispy outer layer and spicy tuna filling make for a delicious and satisfying snack that is sure to leave you wanting more – perfect for any time of the day.
Dhon Riha
Dhon Riha is a traditional Maldivian fish curry made with tuna fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices.
The dish is known for its rich, creamy and flavourful sauce, which is made by simmering the fish with coconut milk and spices such as chili, cumin, and coriander, and is often served with steamed rice or flatbread. The perfect blend of flavours, with the creamy and spicy sauce complementing the delicate flavour of the tuna fish make it perfect for lunch or dinner.
If you’re a fan of seafood and curries, then Dhon Riha is a must-try dish during your visit to the Maldives.
Bis Keemiya
Bis Keemiya is a popular street food snack found in the Maldives, it is a pastry filled with spiced vegetables or chicken.
A fusion of Indian and Maldivian flavours, this crispy snack is made by wrapping the filling in a thin layer of pastry with spiced potatoes, onions, and tuna, and then deep-frying it until crispy and golden brown. The dish is often served with chili sauce or ketchup.
Bis Keemiya is a great snack to enjoy while exploring the bustling streets of Maldivian cities, and a must-try for any savoury or pastry lovers.
At Paradise Isle Holidays we specialise in creating bespoke travel experiences to the Maldives, tailored to your unique preferences and interests. Our team of travel experts will take care of all the planning and arrangements, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the trip of a lifetime. So why wait? Contact us to start planning your dream trip to the Maldives and experience the rich culinary culture of this tropical paradise.