Maldives: Location and People
The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India and Sri Lanka. It comprises around 1,192 islands, with about 200 inhabited. The capital, Male, is situated in North Male Atoll. It is a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean.
A Few Wonders of Maldives
1. Crystal-clear Waters: The Maldives is famous for its stunning turquoise lagoons and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and relaxation.
2. White Sand Beaches: The beaches of the Maldives are iconic, with soft white sand and palm trees swaying in the breeze. Unwind and soak up the sun.
3. Coral Reefs: The Maldives is home to vibrant coral reefs, teeming with marine life. Explore the underwater world and discover its beauty.
4. Luxury Resorts: The Maldives is synonymous with luxury, offering overwater villas, fine dining, and world-class amenities. Experience paradise in style.
The People of Maldives
The people of Maldives, known as Maldivians, are a mix of South Asian, African, and Arab influences. They’re known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage.
The Traditional Dress of Maldives
Traditional Maldivian attire is pretty simple yet elegant. Men wear the “libas” or “sarong” paired with a shirt, while women wear a “libaas” (a long dress) or “jilbab”.
Pulses and Recipes
Pulse cultivation is limited in Maldives due to its island geography and lack of arable land. The country relies heavily on imports for pulse consumption.
Maldives cuisine is heavily fish-based. Mugu Riha is a popular vegetarian alternative.
We will cook Mugu Riha, which is a traditional Maldivian lentil curry made with pink lentils (masoor dal) and a blend of spices. We’ll make a veggie version by skipping the tuna fish, and rampa leaves. It has a slight tangy flavor. Mugu Riha is often a “one-pot” boil.
Mugu Riha
Muguriha is a comforting Maldivian masoor dal dish, bursting with flavors of coconut milk, spices, and a hint of tangy lemon. This wholesome dal pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a staple comfort food.
You need:
100 gm masoor dal (pink lentil)
1 small onion
1 sprig of curry leaves
2 garlic flakes
1 green chili (according to taste)
¼ cup coconut milk
½ tsp turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
Method:
- Wash and soak masoor dal for 10 minutes. Drain.
- Put dal in a pan with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp turmeric, and 2 cups water.
- Bring to a boil. Simmer, covered, removing scum occasionally.
- Cook till soft – about 20-25 minutes.
5. Prep the aromatics! Finely slice onion and garlic.
6. Chop the chili.
7. Separate curry leaves from the sprig.
8. Squeeze out the lemon juice.
9. When the dal’s done, add sliced onion, garlic, chili, curry leaves, and spices. Mix well.
10. Add lemon juice and simmer covered for 5 more minutes.
11. Switch off heat, add coconut milk, and mix well.
12. Cover to let flavors blend.
13. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy!
Give it a try and enjoy your delicious Mugu Riha!
Happy cooking!
Coming up next…. Pulses in Nepalese Cuisine
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Dal On The Table 
It sure sounds tasty!
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It really is! Thank you for the lovely comment.
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every time you share a recipe I feel like making it at once. The idea of using coconut milk with the masoor dal seems great…
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Thank you, Lita! It really is a great combo — simple but so flavorful. Would love to hear what you think if you make it!
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