Kulhi Boakibaa

Kulhi Boakibaa

ކުޅި ބޮއެކިބާ (KOO-lhee boh-ah-kee-BAH)

Spicy Fish Cake

Prep Time 1 hour
📈 Difficulty Medium
👥 Servings
8
🔥 Calories 290 kcal

A savory baked cake made from smoked tuna, grated coconut, rice, and onions, bound with egg and seasoned with curry leaves and chili.

Nutrition & Info

280 kcal per serving
Protein 20.0g
Carbs 30.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ fish ⚠ egg ⚠ gluten

Equipment Needed

baking pan mixing bowl grater oven

Presentation Guide

Vessel: flat serving plate

Garnishes: curry leaves, lime wedges

Accompaniments: sweet chili sauce, hot tea

Instructions

  1. 1

    Shred smoked tuna finely by hand or pulse briefly in a food processor. It should be fluffy, not powdered.

  2. 2

    Combine shredded tuna, cooked rice, grated coconut, onions, chilies, curry leaves, cumin, and turmeric in a large bowl.

  3. 3

    Add beaten eggs and lime juice. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and holds together.

  4. 4

    Grease a baking pan with coconut oil. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan, smoothing the top.

  5. 5

    Bake at 180C for thirty-five to forty minutes until the top is golden brown and the cake is set and firm.

  6. 6

    Cool for ten minutes before cutting into diamond or square shapes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

💡

Did You Know?

Kulhi Boakibaa was traditionally the snack packed for long dhoni boat journeys between atolls, as it travels well and improves with time.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • baking pan
  • mixing bowl
  • grater
  • oven

Garnishing

curry leaves, lime wedges

Accompaniments

sweet chili sauce, hot tea

The Story Behind Kulhi Boakibaa

Kulhi Boakibaa is one of the most iconic hedhikaa in Maldivian cuisine, representing the ingenious use of the islands' two staples: smoked tuna and coconut. The cake-like preparation made it ideal for preserving and transporting food across the scattered atolls. Every island has its own version, with variations in the rice-to-fish ratio and spice levels. This dish is a fixture at every Maldivian gathering and tea table.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed afternoon hedhikaa, tea time 📜 Origins: Traditional Maldivian

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