5 Fish Dishes You Must Try in the Maldives

Mas Riha. A staple in the Maldives.
Image via buffaloboy2513/depositphotos

As much as people associate the Maldives with its white sand and crystal clear blue water, the island nation is also known for its fish. It should come as no surprise that fish is a staple and it’s part of many of the local dishes. If you love fish, especially tuna, you have to try these local dishes.

Bajiya

This sweet and savory pastry is stuffed with fish and coconut. It’s a popular street food that tourists and locals love.

Mas Riha

Curry is super popular in the Maldives and this one with tuna, coconut milk, chilies, and peppers that’s served with rice or flatbread is one of the island nation’s signature dishes.

Rihaakuru

A staple in Maldivian kitchens, this thick, brown fish paste is a byproduct of tuna. After the tuna is cooked in salted water and then removed and the water evaporates, the gooey substance that’s left is turned into a brown paste. It’s usually eaten with rice or flatbread.

Mas Huni

This Maldivian breakfast consists of shredded smoked tuna, coconut, onion, and chili which is blended together and served with flatbread.

Gulha

Gulha, which resembles small dumplings, is made of wheat or rice flour dough filled with tuna, chopped onion, coconut, and chilies. It’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.