Maldivian Cuisine

What type of food can I expect to enjoy if I visit the Maldives? 

 

Eat like a local...

Whilst exploring this beautiful region, I had the opportunity to taste a mouth-watering array of Maldivian cuisine, otherwise known as Dhivehi cuisine. Each dish was bursting with warm spices and unique flavours.

Over time Maldivian cuisine has seen influences from surrounding countries including India and Sri Lanka, which has led to the unique culinary identity that the Maldives has today… with a tantalising range of curries, rainbow salads and delicious accompaniments to try, you will no doubt enjoy the local foods on the islands.

The traditional Maldivian curries often consist of 3 core ingredients; fish, coconut and starch, which create a distinct blend of flavours in every dish. Being a key source of food on the islands, fish is often prepared in a variety of ways, whether curried, steamed of fried you will not be disappointed.

My favourite dish had to be the traditional curry, known locally as Mas Riha. A tuna and coconut based curry that was bursting with unique flavours. I enjoyed my curry with white rice, accompanied by some freshly made paratha (unleavened flat bread) … it is simply delicious!

After witnessing the elaborate rainbow display of Maldivian salads, I couldn’t help but try these beautiful dishes too. A delicious salad I tried was Mas huni, made with tuna, shredded coconut, seasoning and onions. It is a traditional cold dish in the Maldives and is eaten for breakfast.

Whilst enjoying my curry, I had the opportunity to watch the mesmerising Maldivian traditional dance, using the beat of a drum. The rhythmic dance is beautiful and enchanting to watch!

Do you love desserts? I have a very sweet tooth and was excited to have Ice Kacang for dessert! Known locally as air batu campur… it is a simple, yet delicious dessert consisting of shaved ice!

The ice is generously topped with an eclectic mix of condiments… from jelly to peanuts, sweet corn to seeds and is often drenched in sweet sugary syrup and coconut milk… sounds bizarre!? It really is delicious and is the perfect thirst quenching desert after a day of snorkeling and basking in the sun on the picturesque island beaches!

A MUST try dessert! 

You will enjoy a delicious variety of food in the Maldives...from curries that are bursting with flavour, to colourful salads...your taste-buds will come alive!