Flight Booking Tour Package
Street Food of Maldives

Last Updated At: 08-Oct-2024

18 Famous Maldives Street Food

Indulging in the enchanting paradise of the Maldives means immersing oneself in a world of pristine turquoise waters, powdery white beaches, and a rich cultural tapestry. However, beyond its breathtaking natural beauty, this tropical archipelago also tantalises the taste buds with its vibrant street food scene. From bustling markets to humble roadside stalls, the street food of Maldives offers a delightful array of flavorful culinary treasures waiting to be discovered.

Culinary adventure in this island nation unveils a fusion of traditional Maldivian palates, international influences, and a true testament to the coastal wonders that abound. Step onto the streets of the Maldives, and embark on a sensory journey that promises to both captivate and satiate, one delectable bite at a time.

List Of 18 Street Foods Of Maldives

Embark on an exciting Street Food Tour of the Maldives and get ready to witness a mouthwatering feast for your eyes. Experience the delightful sights and flavours that will leave you craving for more.

  • Hedhikaa | Assorted Maldivian Snacks
  • Mashuni | Flavourful Tuna Salad
  • Bajiya | The Irresistible Samosa
  • Kulhi Boakibaa | Aromatic Fish Cake
  • Rihaakuru Riha | Delicious Fish Curry with Fish Paste
  • Kulhi Roshi | Drool-worthy Flatbread with Tuna
  • Masroshi | The Appetising Stuffed Flatbread
  • Huni Havaadhu | Sweetened Coconut
  • Theluli Mas | Luscious Grilled Fish
  • Kottu Roshi | Shredded Flatbread Stir-Fry
  • Handulu Bondibai | The Mouth-watering Sweet Fritters
  • Bondi | Toothsome Banana Fritters
  • Mas Huni | Mashed Tuna with Coconut
  • Rihaakuru Rihaakuru | Heavenly Fish Paste Curry
  • Kudiya | The Delectable Dumplings
  • Kavaabu | Palatable Fish Cutlet)
  • Theluli Mas Riha | Juicy Grilled Fish Curry
  • Gulha | Savory Dough Balls

1. Hedhikaa | Assorted Maldivian Snacks

Hedhikaa holds a special place in the heart of Maldivian cuisine, enchanting both locals and visitors with its delightful array of assorted snacks. It is one of the best halal street foods in Maldives known for its tantalising taste! Beyond being a culinary delight, Hedhikaa is a cultural symbol, representing the rich heritage and traditions of the Maldives. These bite-sized treats, crafted with skill and love, showcase the creativity and resourcefulness of Maldivian cooks. From crispy fish rolls to delectable vegetable fritters, Hedhikaa embodies the flavours of the Maldives, captivating taste buds with its unique blend of spices, textures, and aromas. Whether enjoyed by the turquoise shores or amidst bustling streets, Hedhikaa offers an authentic and unforgettable taste of Maldivian culture.

  • Served with: It is served with rihaakuru (fish paste), chilli sauce, lime wedges, onion salad, and various chutneys, adding flavours and textures that elevate the snacking experience.

Please note that the specific fillings and flavours of Hedhikaa can vary. You can experiment with different vegetarian fillings like mashed potatoes, grated carrots, or even spiced lentils.

2. Mashuni | Flavourful Tuna Salad

Mashuni, a beloved Maldivian dish, is a must-try local street of Maldives that exudes a distinct and captivating charm. Its uniqueness lies in the perfect harmony of flavours and textures. Made with flaky tuna, grated coconut, aromatic spices, and the tang of citrus, Mashuni is a delightful blend that represents the coastal essence of the Maldives. It is a flavorful and refreshing tuna salad, commonly enjoyed for breakfast or brunch. With every bite, Mashuni transports you to the pristine beaches and azure waters, embodying the essence of Maldivian culinary artistry and the natural beauty of the islands.

  • Served with. It is served with roshi (unleavened flatbread) and accompanied by traditional Maldivian condiments like rihaakuru (fish paste), chilli sauce, and lime wedges.

3. Bajiya | The Irresistible Samosa

Bajiya, the irresistible samosa of the Maldives, is a culinary gem that captivates with its tantalising blend of flavours. Encased in a crispy, golden-brown pastry shell, lies a filling of spiced vegetables, fish, or chicken that delights the taste buds with each bite. The first crunchy nibble leads to a burst of savoury goodness, as the aromatic spices envelop the palate in a medley of flavours. Bajiya is more than just a snack; it represents the rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions of the Maldives. With its irresistible appeal and mouthwatering taste, Bajiya stands as a testament to the culinary artistry and the love for flavour that define Maldivian cuisine.

  • Served with. It is often served with tangy and spicy accompaniments such as chilli sauce, mint chutney, or tamarind chutney, enhancing the flavours and adding an extra dimension to this irresistible Maldivian samosa.

Read More: Festivals of Maldives

4. Kulhi Boakibaa | Aromatic Fish Cake

Kulhi Boakibaa is a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of Maldivian cuisine in a single aromatic bite. This aromatic fish cake tantalises the senses with its fragrant blend of minced fish, spices, and coconut. Baked to perfection, it boasts a golden crust that gives way to a moist and flavorful interior. Each bite reveals a symphony of flavours— the delicate sweetness of the fish harmonising with the aromatic spices and the rich creaminess of the coconut. Kulhi Boakibaa showcases the culinary artistry and the deep appreciation for seafood that define the Maldivian palate, making it a truly exceptional dish that leaves a lasting impression.

  • Served with. It is is typically served with a side of coconut chutney or a tangy lime dipping sauce, complementing the aromatic fish cake and adding a refreshing element to the rich flavours of this Maldivian delight.

5. Rihaakuru Riha | Delicious Fish Curry with Fish Paste

Rihaakuru Riha is another mouth-watering halal street food of Maldives which embodies the soulful essence of Maldivian cuisine with its unparalleled depth of flavour and rich heritage. This delicious fish curry showcases the unique specialty of rihaakuru, a traditional fish paste that infuses the dish with an unmatched umami richness. The complex blend of aromatic spices, coconut milk, and the velvety smoothness of rihaakuru creates a symphony of flavours that delights the palate. Each spoonful is a journey through time, connecting diners to the centuries-old traditions and coastal heritage of the Maldives.

  • Served with. It is best enjoyed with a side of steamed rice or roshi (unleavened flatbread), allowing the rich and flavorful fish curry to be savoured alongside the comforting staple of Maldivian cuisine.

6. Kulhi Roshi | Drool-worthy Flatbread with Tuna

Kulhi Roshi is a must-try street food of Maldives which is popular for its oh-so-yummy taste! It is a tantalising culinary creation that melds the crispy satisfaction of flatbread with the delectable flavours of tuna. The thin unleavened bread provides the perfect canvas for a flavorful mixture of tender tuna, aromatic onions, fiery chilli, and fragrant spices. Grilled or pan-fried to golden perfection, Kulhi Roshi boasts a delightful contrast of textures—a crispy exterior giving way to a tender and juicy filling. With every bite, a symphony of tastes dances on the palate, evoking the coastal charm, and vibrant flavours of the Maldives. This beloved street food is a culinary journey that encapsulates the essence of Maldivian cuisine in a single, unforgettable dish.

  • Served with. It is traditionally served with rihaakuru (fish paste), chilli sauce, and lime wedges. These accompaniments enhance the taste of the crispy flatbread and tuna filling, creating a delightful culinary experience.

Read more : Famous Dishes Of Maldives

7. Masroshi | The Appetising Stuffed Flatbread

Masroshi weaves a story of culinary artistry with its irresistible blend of flavours and textures. This stuffed flatbread features a savoury filling of fish, coconut, onions, and spices, encased within a golden, crispy exterior. Baked or pan-fried, it transforms into a mouthwatering delight. The combination of tender fish, aromatic coconut, and the aromatic medley of spices creates a symphony of flavours that leaves a lasting impression on discerning palates, making Masroshi a beloved Maldivian street food favourite.

  • Served with. It is often served with a side of spicy onion relish or chilli sauce, adding an extra kick of flavour to the delectable stuffed flatbread. The condiments enhance the overall taste experience of this Maldivian delight.

8. Huni Havaadhu | Sweetened Coconut