Maldivian cuisine and snacks are unique to our country. Just like our culture and traditions, they do have similarities to some food items you may find in other countries. But our version is definitely worth a try! These are some snacks that you can take back home, to enjoy by yourself or to share with your loved ones from the Maldives.

Ads By Oaga Art Resort Maldives

1.     Haalu Folhi

This thin, crisp, melt in your mouth sweet crepe style snack calledHaalu Folhiis something which is unique to the City of Kulhudhuffushi in Haa Dhaalu Atoll. It has been produced by the residents of Kulhudhuffushi for generations, and is loved by people from all over the country. There is a huge demand forHaalu folhiwhich is produced in small quantities in households and sold in markets. Not many ingredients are used to makeHaalu folhibut the tools and techniques of it are quite unique and remarkable.

2.     Theluli Bambukeyo (breadfruit chips)

Ads By The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives

This is an all-time favorite snack of all Maldivians.Theluli Bambukeyoor fried breadfruit chips, is a delicious local snack commonly produced on many islands across the country. Not a lot of ingredients go into making theTheluli Bambukeyo. In fact, the only ingredient is the breadfruit, which is thinly sliced and deep fried to crisp perfection. Some variations ofTheluli Bambukeyoare candied for extra sweetness or cut into even tinier pieces. This is a snack which is frequently exchanged as gifts between friends and family.

3.     Naana  Kataa

Naana Kataais basically a Maldivian style cookie. It resembles a sugar cookie in looks, but the texture and consistency are tougher and keeps fresh longer. What makes this cookie special is that it is spiced with a bit of ground cardamom. The sweetness from the sugar and savoury flavours of cardamom taste ofNaana Kataais distinct and makes a great accompaniment with a warm cup of milk tea.

4.     Kulhi Kaaja (spicy bread crisps)

Ads By Summer Island Maldives

Kulhi Kaajaais a savoury local snack that is made of spiced fried dough. The dough is made like flatbread, mixed with spices, thinly grated coconut andrihaakuru(Maldivian fish paste). Once the dough is made, it is rolled into small balls, evenly flattened with a rolling pin and cut into the desired shapes and fried till crunchy.Kulhi Kaajaais perfect for a rainy day snack, giving you a mild spicy kick which can be cooled down with a nice glass of iced tea. Most Maldivians enjoy this with a hot cup of tea in the evening.

5.     Kanamadhu Metaa Gandu

At first glance, theKanamadhu Metaa Gandulooks like an ornament, doesn’t it? Kanamadhu Metaa Ganduis originally from the Island of Utheemu in Haa Alifu Atoll. Although it originated from Utheemu, it is made in some other islands as well. The flavour is similar to a caramel bark made with nuts. Its intricate design makes it look as good as it tastes. A bit on the sweeter side,Kanamadhu Metaa Ganduis made with sea almonds as a key ingredient, which is found in abundance in the Maldives’ islands. It is the perfect accompaniment with a cup of coffee.

6.     Kudhi Gulha

Kudhi Gulhais perhaps one of the top favorite snacks for locals.Kudhi Gulhais a savory snack and has a consistency which is quite tough. This small crunchy snack is filled with a mixture of fish, onions, and spices and goes well with a hot cup of tea. The dough for thegulhais made with rice flour instead of regular flour, which is what gives the snack it’s famous golden color and satisfying crunchy exterior. Dough balls are filled with the tuna mix, sealed and deep fried. It’s a bit on the spicy side but can be enjoyed slowly.

These are just a few favorite snacks of locals. Best thing is that they can all be stored for long periods in the right condition. This makes it easy to carry back home and give as gifts to friends and family. So, while you’re in Maldives, try your luck in getting your hands on one or more of these. It’s commonly available in markets on islands while some resorts also have shops which sell these. So ask the staff at your resorts, hotels and try to get some to take back home!