Cuisine of Maldives

Being an island, seafood is available in abundance in Maldives and is the first preference of the local population in Maldives. The mouthwatering recipes of fishes and other seafood are prepared using the local ingredients and spices. The local cuisine of Maldives is spicy and hot but milder in taste in comparison to the other neighboring countries. Many of the dishes of Maldives are influenced by the cuisines of India and Sri Lanka.

The best place to get an authentic flavor of the local food is the cafés locally known as Hotaa. The most popular snack is Hedhikaa, which is prepared using smoked fish, chilies, grated coconut, lime juice and onions. The other snacks include Bajiyaa (fish stuffed pastry), Gulha (fish balls), Keemia (fish rolls), Kulhi Boakibaa (fish cake) and Masroshi (fish stuffed small pancake). Black Tea called Kalhu Sai is a popular drink taken along with the snacks.

The traditional dishes consist of Rice and Garudhiya (Tuna soup prepared using chilies, lemon and onions). The curries can be alternated for Garudhiya. Mas Huni (fish prepared using lemon, onion and grated coconut), Rihaakaru (dish prepared using fish) and Roshi (chapatti) are also popular dishes. The commonly eaten fishes are Trevallies, Barracuda and Tuna served with various curries. Fried Yam is widely eaten by the local population.

The desserts are prepared using flour, sugar and essence. The sweet dishes include Custard, Bodibaiy (dish made of rice and sugar), Foniboakiba (cake made of flour), Githevo Boakiba (dish made of flour, onions and butter) and Huni Hakuru Folhi (dish made of flour, grated coconut and sugar). The fruits such as bananas, mangoes, papayas and watermelons constitute an integral part of the local diet.

Several international dishes have made their way into the cuisine of the people because of the constant interaction with the tourists. Sandwiches, burgers, noodles and pastas etc. are easily available. The real Maldivian delicacy can be enjoyed during the time of Eid, Maloodh and other festivals. One can also enjoy these in the special theme nights organized by hotel and resorts to promote local cuisine.