Food History of Cocoa Island, Maldives
The cuisine of Cocoa Island, like the rest of the Maldives, is heavily influenced by the surrounding sea and the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Due to its location, the islands have traditionally relied on what is readily available, which is predominantly sea life and coconuts. Fishing has historically been the main occupation; hence seafood features prominently in Maldivian cuisine. The use of spices and flavors similar to Indian cooking, with a unique twist of Maldivian tradition, marks the food history of Cocoa Island.
Maldivian cuisine also uses a variety of ingredients brought by seafarers from Arab, Persian, Indonesian, Sri Lankan, and African traditions. Over time, these diverse influences have created a unique blend of flavors that can be experienced in the local dishes.
Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Cocoa Island, Maldives
- Garudhiya (Non-Veg) - A fragrant fish soup, usually served with rice, lime, chili, and onions.
- Mas Huni (Non-Veg) - Shredded smoked tuna mixed with onions, coconut, and chili. Eaten with flatbread known as roshi, this is a typical Maldivian breakfast.
- Fihunu Mas (Non-Veg) - Grilled fish that has been marinated with a mixture of Maldivian spices.
- Bis Keemiya (Veg) - A samosa-like snack, filled with tuna, cabbage, onion, and egg. But there are also vegetarian versions without tuna.
- Maldivian Curry (Veg/Non-Veg) - Usually made with tuna, but there are also vegetable options, the curry is made with a mixture of Maldivian spices including curry leaves and coconut milk.
- Bashi (Veg) - A savory and slightly sweet dish made with eggplant, which can be served as a side dish.
- Hedhikaa (Veg/Non-Veg) - A general term for Maldivian snacks, which include a variety of options such as bajiya (pastry stuffed with fish), gulha (pastry balls with smoked fish), and masroshi (mas huni wrapped in roshi bread).
- Theluli Mas (Non-Veg) - Fried fish seasoned with garlic and chili, and finished with a squeeze of lime.
- Maldivian Live Lobster (Non-Veg) - As a tropical island destination, Cocoa Island offers fresh lobster that can be enjoyed grilled or in a curry.
- Sai (Tea) (Veg) - While not a dish, it is essential to try the Maldivian version of tea, which can be sweetened with condensed milk and accompanied by some traditional short eats or snacks.
Top Famous Restaurants in Cocoa Island, Maldives
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COMO Shambhala Cuisine
Address: Cocoa Island by COMO, South Male Atoll, Maldives
Famous Food: Grilled seafood and organic vegetables (Various types, Non-Veg/Veg)
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Ufaa by Jereme Leung
Address: Cocoa Island by COMO, South Male Atoll, Maldives
Famous Food: Contemporary Chinese and Maldivian fusion dishes (Various types, Non-Veg/Veg)
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Faru Bar
Address: Cocoa Island by COMO, South Male Atoll, Maldives
Famous Food: Light snacks and cocktails with a Maldivian twist (Various types, Non-Veg/Veg)
These restaurants cater to a range of dietary preferences, and it is recommended to inquire about vegetarian options or special dietary requirements. The focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients means that the dishes offer an authentic taste of Maldivian cuisine, artfully crafted to suit international palates.
