The Maldives, an archipelago comprising numerous destinations surrounded by the sea, is a paradise for seafood lovers. Seek out some tantalising local dishes which feature a variety of seafood options that will tingle your taste buds. Here are some top favourites you need to try there.

1.    Mas Huni (Tuna salad)

Considered a breakfast dish, this is a staple in the Maldives. It is a protein-packed delicacy which is made of shredded tuna combined with onion, chilli and coconut. It is often accompanied by a Maldivian flatbread variety named roshi. Since coconut and tuna are used, this is a meal which highlights the island nation’s heritage and makes it a food which is easy to digest for travellers of all ages. It can be found at almost any eatery which sells local seafood because it boasts of genuine Maldivian flavours.

Mashuni_(382668832)
╚ DD╔ from Male, Maldives, Mashuni (382668832), CC BY-SA 2.0

2.    Garudhiya (Aromatic fish broth)

This is a kind of comfort food that is well known for its aromatic essence. It is a clear fish soup that is noted as a cornerstone of the Maldivian culture, as it reflects the island nation’s link with the sea. Warm yet hearty, preparing Garudhiya allows you to make use of the whole fish. Made from tuna, it is served with rice with side dishes like lime, fish paste and chilli, making it a healthy and delicious meal that is affordable as well.  It has deep roots in the country’s fishing community and is central to their lifestyle and culture.

3.    Kulhi Boakibaa (savoury fish cake)

Looking for something delicious to munch on during your sightseeing tours? Pick up some Kulhi Boakibaa. These are great fish-based snacks that you can have on the go or even during tea time. It is also a great appetiser that is being served at festivals or family gatherings. Kulhi Boakibaa is made of smoked tuna, coconut, ginger, garlic, onions, chilli and rice. This makes it pretty filling and finger-licking. Some places even offer baked versions, so you might like to seek this out for a healthier option.

4.    Grilled lobster

Lobster-based meals are usually extravagant dining experiences. They are filled with authentic flavours that are loved by many. The sweet, tender and fresh taste of the meat will blow you away, and this taste will be heightened by the garlic buttery flavour which usually accompanies this ingredient. Visit a luxury seafood restaurant in the Maldives, and this is likely to be on their menu as it is an opulent element. This grilled variety usually sets off a smoky essence and is quite lip-smacking.

5.    Seafood platter 

Would you like to try an assortment of seafood in a meal? Then you need to order a seafood platter. This is the perfect way to get a taste of the ocean-to-plate experience. Aqua, the main seafood dining restaurant at Coco Bodu Hithi, offers this with delicacies like prawns, lobsters, calamari, mussels, and reef fish, which have been seasoned with Asian spices. This is a seafood heaven that also features international dishes as well as local treats, with seafood being prominently featured in their menus.