Maldivian Seafood and Breadfruit Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that showcases the Maldivian staple of breadfruit, combined with a medley of fresh seafood in a rich coconut milk broth. This dish is a flavorful representation of island living, where local ingredients are transformed into a nourishing meal.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Breadfruit, peeled and cubed
- 400 g Mixed seafood (e.g., firm white fish, shrimp, squid rings)
- 400 ml Coconut milk
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated
- 2 Green chilies, slit
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 10 Curry leaves
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 200 ml Water
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Boil the cubed breadfruit in salted water until tender but not mushy, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Boiling the breadfruit first ensures it cooks through in the stew without disintegrating. - 2
Heat vegetable oil in a pot or deep pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sautรฉ until softened, about 5 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Sautรฉing the aromatics builds a flavorful base for the stew. - 3
Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and sautรฉ for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 4
Stir in turmeric powder and coriander powder. Add the curry leaves and slit green chilies, and cook for 30 seconds.
๐ก Tip: Toasting the spices briefly enhances their flavor. - 5
Pour in the coconut milk and water. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
๐ก Tip: Avoid boiling the coconut milk vigorously, as it can curdle. - 6
Add the mixed seafood to the simmering broth. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is just cooked through.
๐ก Tip: Overcooking seafood will make it tough. - 7
Add the pre-boiled breadfruit cubes to the stew. Season with salt to taste. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the breadfruit to absorb some of the broth.
๐ก Tip: Adjust seasoning as needed. - 8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
๐ก Tip: This stew is best served hot with rice or roshi (Maldivian flatbread).
๐ก Pro Tips
- โEnsure your breadfruit is fresh for the best texture and flavor.
- โYou can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies.
- โIf you can't find mixed seafood, use your favorite type of fish or shrimp.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer color and slightly tangy flavor.
- Include other vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers along with the breadfruit.
- A squeeze of lime juice just before serving can add a refreshing zest.