Remember that when you go on holiday to the Maldives, it’s not just you who is in for a treat but your taste buds as well! If you are a foodie heading to this tropical paradise for the first time, here are some key dishes to try.

Mas Huni 
Starting this blog with the ideal dish to start the day. Begin your mornings with a plate of mas huni. It’s a local favourite made with tuna, coconut, onion, chillies and a dash of lime, all mixed into one tasty dish. Scoop it up with warm Maldivian flatbread (called huni roshi) and sip on some sweet hot tea. Suffice it to say, once you try this combination, cereal just won’t cut it anymore!

Curries
Maldivian curries, be they prepared at local homes or the best resort in Maldives, are rich, creamy and made with fresh coconut milk and aromatic spices. Whether it’s tuna-filled mas riha, the spiced chicken of kukulhu riha, or veggie options with pumpkin or aubergine, there’s a curry for everyone. Bonus: Some resorts like NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort offer immersive experiences where you can even learn to make curries and traditional dishes guided by skilled chefs!

Garudhiya
This humble fish broth is one of the most traditional dishes you will find in the Maldives. It basically consists of just tuna, salt and water, though it has a few flavourful extras like chilli, garlic, onion, curry leaves, and a dash of lime. Fragrant and soul-soothing, garudhiya is often enjoyed with steamed rice or flatbread, providing a simple, hearty and totally comforting meal after a long day in the sun.

Image by Anthony Langdon from Pixabay

Bajiya
Feeling peckish between meals? Grab a bajiya or two! This crispy triangle-shaped snack resembles a samosa, popular in India and Sri Lanka, and is often stuffed with smoked tuna, boiled egg and a local spice paste. It’s the ultimate beach snack, crunchy on the outside, and warm and flavourful on the inside. Just don’t forget to eat it while it’s still hot and golden!