Kavaabu

Kavaabu Recipe from Maldives - Tuna, Potato, Onion, Garlic, and More

Region / culture: Maldives | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Kavaabu is a popular Maldivian dish made with a mixture of tuna, mashed potato, and spices. It is typically served as a snack or appetizer and is loved for its crispy exterior and flavorful filling.

History

Kavaabu has been a staple in Maldivian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated as a way to use up leftover ingredients, such as tuna and potatoes, in a delicious and satisfying way. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of spices and seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

2 cans of tuna
250 g of mashed potato
2 thinly sliced onions
1 crushed garlic clove
2 thinly sliced cherry peppers
juice of 2 limes
1 tsp of ground peppercorns
6 hard boiled eggs, cut into halves
200 g of breadcrumbs
2 eggs
salt for seasoning
oil for deep-frying

How to prepare

Crush the onion, garlic, and chili with salt. Add in the lime juice and mix well. Add in the mashed potato, tuna, and pepper.
Thoroughly combine the ingredients. Divide the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls. Stuff each half of an egg with the tuna and potato mixture, shaping it into an oval shape.
Coat the prepared cutlets with breadcrumbs, then deep fry them until golden brown. Drain on absorbent kitchen paper. Serve hot.

Variations

Add chopped cilantro or mint leaves to the tuna and potato mixture for a fresh and herby flavor.
Substitute the tuna with canned salmon or shredded chicken for a different twist on the recipe.
Add grated cheese to the mixture for a gooey and cheesy filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the tuna well before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the kavaabu from becoming too wet.

- Be gentle when shaping the mixture around the hard-boiled eggs to avoid breaking them.

- Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan with enough oil to ensure that the kavaabu cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.

Serving Suggestions

Kavaabu can be served hot as a snack or appetizer with a side of spicy sauce or chutney. It can also be enjoyed as a main dish with a side of salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying: The traditional method of cooking kavaabu involves deep-frying the stuffed cutlets until golden brown and crispy.

- Baking: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the kavaabu in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

Instead of tuna, you can use canned salmon, shredded chicken, or even mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

- If you don't have cherry peppers, you can use jalapenos or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the kavaabu mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, shape the mixture around the hard-boiled eggs, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the kavaabu on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a side of dipping sauce for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Kavaabu pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as coconut chutney, cucumber raita, or a simple green salad. It also goes well with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea or a tropical fruit smoothie.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover kavaabu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kavaabu in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of kavaabu contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of kavaabu contains approximately 20g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of kavaabu contains approximately 10g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of kavaabu contains approximately 15g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Kavaabu is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Kavaabu contains fish (tuna), eggs, and gluten (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Kavaabu is a nutritious and delicious snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Summary

Kavaabu is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. With its crispy exterior and flavorful filling, it is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try this recipe for a taste of Maldivian cuisine in your own home!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Kavaabu many years ago. It was during my travels through the Maldives, a beautiful chain of islands in the Indian Ocean. I had always been drawn to the local cuisine, with its vibrant flavors and unique ingredients.

One day, I found myself in a bustling market in Male, the capital city of the Maldives. The air was filled with the enticing aroma of spices and grilled seafood. As I wandered through the maze of stalls, my eyes fell upon a small booth where an elderly woman was selling a variety of traditional Maldivian snacks.

I was immediately captivated by the sight of the golden-brown Kavaabu, small fish cakes that were sizzling in a large pot of oil. The woman behind the counter noticed my interest and beckoned me over with a warm smile. She handed me a piece of Kavaabu to try, and as soon as I took a bite, I was hooked.

The flavors of the sea danced on my tongue, with hints of curry leaves, ginger, and chili blending perfectly with the tender fish. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delicious snack.

I struck up a conversation with the woman, whose name was Amina. She was a seasoned cook who had been making Kavaabu for decades. As we chatted, she shared the story behind the recipe, passed down to her by her grandmother.

Amina invited me to her home the next day to learn how to make Kavaabu. I eagerly accepted, excited at the prospect of mastering this Maldivian delicacy.

The following morning, I arrived at Amina's modest home, which was filled with the fragrant aroma of spices and herbs. She welcomed me with open arms and led me to her kitchen, where she had all the ingredients laid out neatly on the counter.

"First, we need to prepare the fish," Amina explained, showing me how to clean and debone the fresh tuna. She then taught me how to finely chop onions, garlic, and curry leaves, which would be mixed with the fish to create the flavorful filling for the Kavaabu.

As we worked together, Amina shared stories of her childhood in the Maldives, where she learned the art of cooking from her grandmother. She spoke fondly of the days spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching in awe as she expertly prepared traditional Maldivian dishes.

After marinating the fish with a blend of spices and herbs, we shaped the mixture into small patties and gently fried them in hot oil until they were crisp and golden brown. The scent of the Kavaabu filled the kitchen, and my mouth watered in anticipation.

Once the Kavaabu were cooked to perfection, Amina showed me how to serve them with a tangy tamarind chutney and a side of coconut sambol. The combination of flavors was nothing short of divine, and I savored each bite with delight.

As we sat down to enjoy our freshly made Kavaabu, Amina shared more of her culinary wisdom with me. She explained the importance of using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cooking with love and care.

I left Amina's home that day with a newfound appreciation for Maldivian cuisine and a heart full of gratitude for the hospitality and generosity of the people I had met on my travels. The recipe for Kavaabu had become a cherished addition to my repertoire, and I knew that I would always treasure the memories of learning to make it with Amina.

To this day, whenever I prepare Kavaabu for my family and friends, I am transported back to that bustling market in Male, where the scent of spices and the warmth of the Maldivian sun filled the air. And as I watch their faces light up with delight at the first bite of this delicious snack, I am reminded of the magic of food and the joy of sharing it with the ones we love.