Maldivian Vegetable Curry
Tharukaaree Riha
Tharukaaree Riha is a comforting and flavorful Maldivian vegetable curry, showcasing the islands' reliance on fresh produce and their culinary influences from India and Sri Lanka. This vegetarian dish is rich with aromatic spices, coconut milk, and a medley of seasonal vegetables, making it a hearty and wholesome meal often served with steamed rice.

๐ง Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Coconut oil
- 1 medium Onion, sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece Ginger, thinly sliced
- 1 Green chili, minced
- 6 Curry leaves
- 1 Pandan leaf, tied in a knot
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 cup Sweet potato, cubed
- 1 cup Pumpkin, cubed
- 1 cup Carrots, cubed
- 1 cup Green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups Coconut milk
- to taste Salt
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Heat coconut oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sautรฉ until softened, about 5 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Using coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor that complements the curry. - 2
Add the minced garlic, sliced ginger, and minced green chili to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Sautรฉing the aromatics releases their flavors and aromas. - 3
Stir in the curry leaves, pandan leaf, and turmeric powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
๐ก Tip: Toast the spices briefly to enhance their flavor. - 4
Add the cubed sweet potato, pumpkin, carrots, and green beans to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and add salt to taste. Stir everything to combine.
๐ก Tip: Ensure all vegetables are submerged in the coconut milk for even cooking. - 5
Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
๐ก Tip: Simmering allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to cook through without becoming mushy. - 6
Remove the pandan leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
๐ก Tip: The curry should be thick and flavorful. If it's too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. - 7
Serve hot with steamed white rice.
๐ก Tip: This curry is also delicious with Maldivian 'roshi' (flatbread).
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFeel free to use other seasonal vegetables like cauliflower, eggplant, or drumsticks.
- โFor a richer curry, use full-fat coconut milk.
- โAdjust the amount of green chili to your preferred level of heat.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a deeper color and flavor.
- Incorporate a pinch of ground coriander or cumin for added complexity.
- For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked chicken or fish pieces towards the end of cooking.