When you think of a Maldivian breakfast, picture vibrant flavours, fresh ingredients, and a hearty start to the day. Unlike typical breakfasts around the world, a Maldivian breakfast is a savory affair, rooted deeply in the country’s rich culinary heritage. The combination of tuna, coconut, and local spices makes these dishes truly unique to the Maldives. In this article, we’ll take you on a flavourful journey through the most popular dishes that make up a Maldivian breakfast.
Huni Roshi
One of the first dishes you will encounter at a Maldivian breakfast table is Huni Roshi, a flatbread that’s slightly different from what you may be accustomed to. Huni Roshi is made by mixing freshly grated coconut into the dough, giving it a delightful coconutty, earthy taste. The result is a slightly thicker roshi that is soft, yet firm enough to tear into pieces.
While it resembles Sri Lanka’s pol roti (coconut roti), the Maldivian version is usually larger and lighter in texture. Traditionally, Huni Roshi is paired with Kulhi Rihaakuru, a savory fish paste, or Mashuni, a tuna-coconut mixture, making for a satisfying and flavorful start to the day.
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Theyo Roshi: Maldivian Breakfast
Another variation of the traditional Maldivian flatbread is Theyo Roshi. This is the basic version of roshi, made with a simple dough of white flour, hot water, a pinch of salt, and oil. It’s rolled by hand into thin, soft discs and cooked on a griddle until it develops dark brown spots. The texture is soft and light, making it the perfect accompaniment for a Maldivian breakfast.
Theyo Roshi is commonly served with savory dishes such as Kulhi Mas (spicy tuna), Mashuni, and Kulhi Rihaakuru. The combination of roshi with these side dishes is the heart and soul of a Maldivian morning meal.
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Kulhi Mas
If you are looking for something flavorful and spicy to kickstart your day, Kulhi Mas is an essential part of any Maldivian breakfast. This dish consists of cubed tuna cooked in a spicy mix of onions, spices, aromatics, and grated coconut. The result is a rich, fragrant dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
In the past, Kulhi Mas was made by sautéing onions and spices, mixing them with fresh tuna, and cooking it all together until the flavors blended perfectly. Today, it’s often prepared with canned tomato paste, which adds a beautiful red hue and a rich flavor that complements the tuna perfectly. It’s the ideal dish to scoop up with pieces of Roshi for a filling breakfast.
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Theluli Rihaakuru
Theluli Rihaakuru is a type of the traditional Rihaakuru (Maldivian fish paste) that is combined with onions, scotch bonnet peppers, and lime juice. This mixture creates a savory, spicy dish that is a staple in many Maldivian breakfasts. The salty and tangy flavors make it the perfect accompaniment to Huni Roshi, which soaks up the flavors beautifully when torn into pieces and dipped into the paste.
This dish may seem simple, but it packs a punch and offers a unique Maldivian flavor that is unlike anything else.
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Mas huni
Mashuni is a true Maldivian breakfast classic. It’s made by mixing freshly grated coconut with tuna, onions, chili, and lime. This dish can also be customized with different types. For example, you can add boiled or steamed baraboa(pumpkin) to create Baraboa Mashuni, or use Kopeefathu (perennial leaves) for Kopeefathu Mashuni. The combination of these fresh ingredients creates a wholesome, vibrant dish that is beloved by locals.
In some regions, Valhomas Mashuni is made by adding smoked tuna and dried chilies, creating a richer, smokier flavor profile that is equally delicious. Mashuni is typically eaten with Huni Roshi, making it a perfect breakfast pairing.
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Kulhi Riha
If you are a fan of spicy food, Kulhi Riha is a must try. Kulhi Riha is a spicy tuna curry that is usually served as a side dish during a Maldivian breakfast. The curry is made by cooking tuna or smoked tuna (Valhomas) with a blend of spices, creating a flavorful, aromatic dish that is best eaten with Roshi. While the dish is similar to Sri Lankan Koththu (a type of curry with roti), it is served as a separate curry and not mixed with the roshi on the stove.
Kulhi Riha is a great way to spice up your morning and experience the full range of Maldivian flavors.
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Kopee Fathu Mas Huni
When it comes to Maldivian breakfast, one dish that stands out as a true national favorite is Kopee fathu Mas Huni. Found in nearly every Maldivian home and often served in local cafés early in the morning.
The classic Kopee Fathu Mas Huni is a simple yet incredibly flavorful mixture of finely grated coconut, freshly chopped onions, crushed chilies, a generous squeeze of lime juice, colard greens (kopee faiy) and the star ingredient — tuna. The tuna used is typically canned or cured, though in some homes, smoked or dried tuna (known locally as valhomas) is used for a richer flavor.
Enjoying Kopee Fathu Mas Huni is a genuine Maldivian breakfast experience, best paired with a hot cup of black tea (kalhu sai) or sweet milk tea (kiru sai). It’s the kind of meal that energizes you for the day ahead and reminds you of the rich culinary heritage of island life.
Moringa Omelette
For something a little different, try the Moringa Omelette, a popular dish among Maldivian families. Moringa leaves, known for their nutritional value, are used to make this omelette. The tiny leaves are time-consuming to separate, which is why this dish isn’t commonly available in restaurants or resorts. However, if you get the chance to visit a local Maldivian family or participate in a local excursion, you might just get to enjoy this unique dish.
The Moringa Omelette offers an earthy, green flavor that enhances the richness of the eggs, making it a healthy and wholesome addition to your Maldivian breakfast spread.
Enjoying Maldivian Breakfast with Tea
Maldivian breakfast won’t be completes without a cup of tea. Locals often enjoy their morning meal with Kalhu Sai (black tea) or Kiru Sai (milk tea) — both of which are typically served with sugar. The warm, comforting tea pairs perfectly with the spicy, savory flavors of the dishes, offering a complete sensory experience to start your day right.
The Maldivian Breakfast Experience
If you ever visit the Maldives, don’t miss out on the chance to experience a traditional Maldivian breakfast. Whether you are enjoying Mashuni with Roshi or savoring the flavors of Kulhi Mas and Kulhi Rihaakuru, these dishes provide a window into the heart of Maldivian culture and cuisine.
It’s not just about the food; it’s about the experience — gathering around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying the flavors that have been passed down through generations. Whether you’re staying in a guesthouse, a resort, or dining with locals, make sure to start your day with a Maldivian breakfast for a taste of authentic island life.
