Known for its crystal clear waters and captivating beaches, Maldives is a must-visit destination on every traveller’s bucket list. There is another standout feature of this paradise— its vibrant and flavorful cuisine. The perfect blending of fresh aromatic spices, coconut and seafood makes Maldivian cuisine one of a kind. Influenced by Indian, Arabic and Sri Lankan cooking traditions, Maldivian food offers a delightful array of dishes. From tasty fish curries to crispy snacks, each popular food in Maldives showcases the rich culinary history of the island.
Why you must try the food in Maldives?
Whether vegetarian or non-vegetarian, you have many tasty food options in the Maldives. Due to the island's abundant marine resources, seafood is the most popular food in Maldives. Fishing is the primary livelihood for locals, and fish serves as the staple food of the island. You can explore scrumptious dishes, where fish takes center stage as the key ingredient.
In this blog, we talk about some of the most popular Maldives food you cannot miss out on.
10 popular foods in Maldives
Here are 10 most popular Maldivian cuisines that’ll keep you tempted:
1. Garudhiya
Garudhiya, the tasty fish soup, is a traditional Maldivian cuisine. This lip-smacking tuna fish soup is served with steamed rice, chapati, lime, chilli and coconut.
2. Mas Huni
If you are a spice lover, you cannot miss trying Mas Huni or shredded smoked tuna, which has a perfect mix of spices. Mas Huni, a breakfast dish, is usually served with Maldivian flatbread called Roshi. Onions, chillies and coconut seasonings are added to make it more flavorful.
3. Vegetarian curry meal
For vegetarians, traditional curry meals offer a delightful variety of flavours. This simple yet delicious dish consists of steamed white rice served with a curry from potatoes and many vegetables. A side of juicy orange slices adds a refreshing touch, perfectly complementing the dish.
4. Masroshi
Masroshi is a type of stuffed chapati. The stuffing is usually a tasty tuna mix prepared from cooked tuna, coconut, onion, garlic, pepper and curry leaves. This medium-sized stuffed bread is usually served with tea.
5. Boshi Mashuni
Boshi Mashuni is a spicy salad similar to salsa. It is made of banana flowers, which are the main ingredient. It is a popular dish usually served before the main course. Crunchy banana flowers are served with other tossed ingredients. Cumin, turmeric, curry leaves and coconut flavours add an extra punch to the dish.
6. Saagu bondibai
Saagu bondibai is a sweet and tasty pudding usually served at celebrations and functions in the Maldives. Saagu, or sabudana, is a staple diet of Maldivian houses. Cooked in coconut and condensed milk, this delicious pudding is flavoured with cardamom and rose water.
7. Kulhi boakibaa
Kulhi boakibaa is a unique Maldivian dish. The fish cake recipe uses ground rice, tuna, coconut, onions and spices as the main ingredients. It is one of the Maldives popular food items.
8. Fried yams
As one of the main crops in the Maldives, yams are included in many Maldivian cuisines. Fried yams are crispy and tasty, especially when served with sauces. Fried yams are a perfect snacking option.
9. Maldivian lobster
Many hotels in the Maldives serve live lobster as a special delicacy. Expertly cooked, lobster is a favourite among food enthusiasts, offering a truly memorable dining experience.
10. Maldivian Lady
While discussing the Maldives popular food items, we cannot miss out on the Maldivian lady cocktail. This popular drink features a flavourful mix of oranges, pineapples, apricots and white rum to spice up your day.
Importance of travel insurance
Whether you're savouring traditional fish curries or enjoying a variety of vegetarian dishes, a food trip to the Maldives is sure to be a feast for your senses. However, while you immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of the island, it’s essential to ensure you're fully prepared for any unexpected situations. Securing International travel insurance is important for a worry-free trip, protecting you from unexpected medical emergencies. Single trip travel insurance covers all your emergency expenses that may occur during travel like lost luggage, flight delays and cancellations.
FAQs
- What seafood is mainly used to prepare Maldives food items?
Tuna is a prevalent seafood mainly used in Maldives food items like Masroshi and Garudhiya.
- Is Maldivian cuisine spicy?
Yes, most Maldivian cuisines have a spicy kick due to their seasonings, which include chilli, pepper and lemon juice.
Conclusion
Exploring the Maldives' vibrant culinary culture is very exciting. Whether it is a group tour or a solo trip, never forget to purchase a suitable travel plan, as it ensures extra protection and provides you peace of mind.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.