Fihunu Mas (Maldivian Chili, Garlic, Cumin & Lime Paste Char-Grilled Reef Fish) – Authentic Maldives Recipe

Ingredients for Fihunu Mas (Maldivian Chili, Garlic, Cumin & Lime Paste Char-Grilled Reef Fish) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) whole or filleted red snapper/reef fish, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups cucumber-onion salad, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup coconut rice
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with roasted red chilies
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Maldives seasoning (cumin, black peppercorn, garlic, fresh lime juice)
• 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Whisk together roasted red chilies, cumin, black peppercorn, garlic, fresh lime juice, cooking oil, and sea salt in a bowl to form a fragrant Maldives marinade.
2. Coat whole or filleted red snapper/reef fish and cucumber-onion salad thoroughly in the seasoning and let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
3. Heat a cast-iron grill pan or heavy skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
4. Sear whole or filleted red snapper/reef fish and cucumber-onion salad for 4–5 minutes per side until blistered, charred at the edges, and cooked through.
5. Transfer to a warm platter, scatter with coconut rice, and serve immediately.