Introduction to Maldivian Cuisine
Maldivian cuisine is a reflection of the island nation’s close relationship with the sea. With fish being the primary source of protein, Maldivian dishes are rich in seafood. The cuisine also draws influences from Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic cuisines. Coconut milk, spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom, and starchy staples like rice and breadfruit are some of the essential ingredients used in Maldivian cuisine.
Overview of Maldivian Sweets and Desserts
With its tropical climate and abundance of fresh fruits, Maldives has a variety of sweet treats and desserts. Many traditional Maldivian sweets are made with coconut, jaggery (a type of cane sugar), and rice flour. These sweets are often served during special occasions, including weddings and festive gatherings. In recent years, Maldivian cuisine has undergone a revival, with chefs experimenting with modern takes on traditional desserts and sweets, using local ingredients and techniques.
Traditional Sweet Treats in Maldives
Foni Boakiba is a popular Maldivian sweet made with grated coconut, jaggery, and rice flour. The mixture is rolled into balls, boiled in water, and then baked or fried. Another traditional Maldivian sweet is Bondibai, which is similar to Indian ladoos, made with sweetened condensed milk, coconut, and cardamom. They are often served at celebratory events and are a popular snack for children.
Popular Maldivian Desserts
One of the most popular Maldivian desserts is Bambukeylu Hithe, which is made with sticky rice, coconut milk, and jaggery. The mixture is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked. It is often served alongside sweetened condensed milk and fresh fruit.
Unique Ingredients Used in Maldivian Sweets
Maldivian sweets and desserts often use unique ingredients, including kattiri fai (breadfruit flour), kurumba (young coconut), and hunigondi (a type of Maldivian honey). These ingredients add distinct flavors and textures to the sweets and desserts, making them unique to Maldivian cuisine.
Modern Takes on Maldivian Desserts
In recent years, Maldivian chefs have started to experiment with modern takes on traditional desserts and sweets. For example, the popular sweet, Foni Boakiba, has been transformed into a modern dessert by adding a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Chefs are also incorporating local flavors into desserts, such as using mangoes and passion fruit in cheesecake recipes. These modern takes on Maldivian desserts showcase the creativity and ingenuity of Maldivian chefs and their willingness to push the boundaries of traditional cuisine.
