Maldivian Curry Recipes

by Iyath Adam

In most Maldivian homes, curry or riha is a part of everyday life. It’s what you make when you want something quick but satisfying, and it can be as light or as hearty as you need it to be.

Maldivian curries usually start with coconut milk, chilli, and a curry paste (made with aromatics like pandan leaves, curry leaves, garlic, onions and spices like coriander, fennel, cardamom, cinnamon etc.). While curries are usually made with tuna fish, other vegetables like pumpkin, breadfruit, drumsticks, and even hardboiled eggs can be added, depending on the type of curry. Every island and household have their own way of doing things, but the result is always familiar: warm and mildly spiced curry, built for eating with roshi or rice.

So, if you’re looking to explore some easy, home-style Maldivian curries, here are 9 great recipes to get you started!

Tharukaaree riha

This tharukaaree riha or vegetable curry is hearty, flavourful and super-easy to prepare! Make a big batch and keep in the refrigerator for easy weeknight meals.

Mas riha

The classic tuna curry, rich with spices and thick coconut milk, is a staple on most Maldivian tables. Our version is a bit mild, so feel free to add in as much chilli or scotch bonnet as you like.

Muguriha

The Maldivian version of muguriha or dhal curry (lentil curry) is milder and creamier than its Indian counterpart. Made with just yellow lentils, turmeric powder, and coconut milk, it goes great with both roshi and rice!

Dhon riha

Dhon riha is a simple, balanced tuna curry that sits somewhere in between kirugarudhiya (a milder coconut milk broth in Maldivian cuisine) and riha (the full-bodied, spicy curry). Making the curry paste for this can take some time, but that’s what gives this riha its distinct taste!

Muranga fathu riha

Muranga faiy or moringa leaves are usually used to make omelettes or fried to make theluli faiy – but this curry is a great way to enjoy its benefits with a unique Maldivian twist.

Kulhi riha

Kulhi riha or spicy fish curry – as the name suggests – is hot and spicy. Find the freshest tuna you can for this curry, otherwise the taste can end up being overly fishy rather than spicy!

Bis riha

This is quite a yummy egg curry made from freshly roasted and ground spices and hardboiled eggs. The spiciness of this curry makes it perfect for enjoying with some roshi!

Kukulhu riha

Kukulhu riha or chicken curry is a quintessential Maldivian dish which is usually made on special occasions like Friday and Eid days. The curry paste is freshly made to give it a flavourful, hearty taste which goes great with roshi.

Baraboa riha

Baraboa riha or pumpkin curry is one of those things you can whip up in less than 30 minutes. The best part is that you can adapt this recipe from ground spices to whole spices, depending on what’s available and your preference!