Introduction to Maldivian Cuisine

Maldivian cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors influenced by South Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic culinary traditions. As an island nation, seafood—especially tuna—is at the heart of every meal, complemented by tropical ingredients like coconut, curry leaves, and chili. Traditional Maldivian dishes in Ukulhas are simple yet rich in flavor, often characterized by the perfect balance of spices, freshness, and local techniques that have been passed down through generations. When visiting Ukulhas, a charming island known for its pristine beaches and sustainable tourism, tasting authentic Maldivian food is an essential experience for travelers seeking local culture and flavor.

Must-Try Traditional Dishes

1. Mas Huni – A Maldivian Breakfast Staple

Mas Huni is one of the most beloved breakfast dishes in the Maldives. This delicious mixture of shredded smoked tuna, freshly grated coconut, finely chopped onions, and chili is traditionally served with roshi, a soft, unleavened Maldivian flatbread. The dish is often accompanied by a hot cup of kalhu sai (black tea) to complete the meal.

2. Garudhiya – Hearty Tuna Broth

Garudhiya is a comforting and protein-rich tuna broth that has been a staple in Maldivian households for centuries. Made with fresh tuna, water, and a hint of salt, this dish is typically served with steamed rice, lime, chili, and onions. Locals enhance the flavor by adding dried fish chips (mas chips) or smoked fish, making it an essential meal after a long day at sea.

3. Fihunu Mas – Grilled Fish with Maldivian Spices

Grilled fish, or Fihunu Mas, is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the island’s abundant seafood. Tuna, reef fish, or mackerel is marinated with a mixture of chili, curry leaves, lime, garlic, and Maldivian spice blends before being grilled over an open flame. The smoky, charred flavors combined with the spicy marinade make this dish a must-try for seafood lovers.

4. Rihaakuru – Maldivian Tuna Paste

Rihaakuru is a thick, concentrated tuna paste that results from hours of slow cooking tuna broth. This umami-packed paste is often eaten with rice or roshi and is considered a delicacy in Maldivian households. It is rich in nutrients and has an intense flavor, offering a unique taste of the Maldivian sea.

5. Bis Keemiya – Maldivian Samosa

A cross between a samosa and a spring roll, Bis Keemiya is a crispy, deep-fried pastry filled with cabbage, onions, boiled eggs, and occasionally tuna. It is a popular street food snack in the Maldives, often enjoyed as a quick bite or an appetizer before a meal.

6. Hedhikaa – Maldivian Short Eats

Hedhikaa refers to a variety of traditional Maldivian snacks commonly found in local tea shops. These bite-sized treats are perfect for an afternoon snack and include:

• Bajiya – A deep-fried pastry filled with spicy tuna and coconut.
• Gulha – Small, round dumplings stuffed with tuna, onions, and chili.
• Keemiya – A pastry roll filled with tuna or vegetable stuffing.
• Masroshi – A stuffed roshi with a flavorful tuna and coconut filling.

Where to Try Traditional Maldivian Dishes in Ukulhas

Ukulhas offers a range of local eateries where travelers can indulge in authentic Maldivian cuisine. Here are some of the best spots to try traditional dishes:

1. Peperone Restaurant

A well-known spot for both locals and tourists, Central Diner serves Mas Huni, Garudhiya, and Fihunu Mas prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional spices. Their breakfast platters are highly recommended for those wanting a taste of the local morning flavors.

2. Sea Salt Restaurant

This restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Maldivian specialties like Rihaakuru with roshi and Hedhikaa snacks. The casual atmosphere and budget-friendly prices make it a great place for travelers looking to enjoy traditional meals without breaking the bank.

3. Nala Bistro

One of the top-rated dining spots on the island, Nala Bistro specializes in grilled seafood, including Fihunu Mas, served with a side of Maldivian condiments like lime, chili, and coconut sambal.

4. Guesthouse Dining Experiences

Many guesthouses in Ukulhas offer home-cooked Maldivian meals for their guests, providing an authentic culinary experience. Staying in a guesthouse that serves local cuisine allows travelers to savor freshly prepared dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

The Role of Tuna in Maldivian Food Culture

Tuna is the backbone of Maldivian cuisine, and its versatility is reflected in the wide variety of dishes that feature it. The Maldives is one of the world’s top tuna-exporting nations, with sustainable pole-and-line fishing methods ensuring high-quality, fresh catches. Tuna is consumed in multiple forms, including fresh, smoked, dried, and fermented, making it the ultimate staple ingredient in the local diet.

Common tuna preparations include:

• Mas Huni – Finely shredded smoked tuna with coconut.
• Rihaakuru – Concentrated tuna paste.
• Fried Tuna Steaks – Pan-fried or grilled with Maldivian spices.
• Tuna Curry – A fragrant, coconut-based curry made with chunks of tuna.

Local Ingredients and Cooking Methods

Maldivian cuisine relies on a range of fresh and aromatic ingredients that give its dishes their distinctive taste. Some key ingredients include:

• Coconut – Used in almost every dish, either grated, in curries, or as coconut milk.
• Chili – Adds heat to most Maldivian meals.
• Curry Leaves – Provides a deep, aromatic flavor to curries and broths.
• Breadfruit – A starchy fruit often used in soups and curries.
• Taro Root – Commonly cooked in curries or fried as chips.
• Screwpine Fruit (Kashikeyo) – A local delicacy used in desserts and drinks.

Cooking techniques include grilling, steaming, and frying, with coconut oil often used to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Dining Etiquette and Tips

When dining in Ukulhas, it’s helpful to understand some local customs:

• Eating with Hands – Many locals prefer eating with their hands, particularly when enjoying roshi and rice-based dishes.
• Sharing Meals – Maldivian meals are often communal, with multiple dishes placed in the center of the table for everyone to share.
• Tea Culture – Maldivians love their tea, especially kalhu sai (black tea), often enjoyed with Hedhikaa snacks in the afternoon.
• Dress Modestly – While Ukulhas is a tourist-friendly island, dressing modestly when dining at local eateries is recommended.

Conclusion

Exploring Traditional Maldivian Dishes in Ukulhas is a culinary journey that immerses travelers in the rich heritage and flavors of the Maldives. From hearty tuna-based meals to delightful snacks and sweets, the island offers a true taste of Maldivian hospitality. Whether you choose to dine in a local restaurant, try home-cooked meals at a guesthouse, or sample street food, Ukulhas is a paradise for food lovers eager to discover the essence of authentic Maldivian cuisine.