Image by Kamilla Isalieva

Mas huni

Mas Huni is a traditional dish of Sri Lanka, originating in the coastal areas of the country and hailing from its rich culinary past. This hearty combination of tuna, coconut, rice, onion, and chili flakes is an enticing medley of flavors and textures, and has become a favorite of both locals and visitors alike.

Mas huni


The base of Mas Huni is a mixture of freshly grated coconut and finely chopped onion, sautéed together in oil and spiced with a combination of chili flakes and turmeric for a fragrant and slightly spicy flavor. The addition of dry-roasted rice lends a lovely crunchy texture. Cubes of fresh tuna are then folded into the mix and cooked gently to perfection, giving the dish a unique mouthfeel and a beautiful color.

The mellow sweetness of the coconut is balanced by the warm spices and onion, while the tuna gives the dish a meaty richness and a subtle hint of the sea. Mas Huni's blend of bold flavors will tantalize your taste buds, making it a perfect accompaniment to any main course or a delicious meal on its own.

This iconic Sri Lankan dish, with its eye-catching presentation and unforgettable combination of flavors, is sure to delight and satisfy those who seek an authentic gastronomic experience. And because it is relatively straightforward to make and uses a limited number of ingredients, it can be prepared quickly and easily, allowing you to savor a satisfying plate of Mas Huni in no time - truly a lush and luscious treat!

The origin of Mas huni

Mas huni is something of a local legend in the Maldives. Originally a dish served to fishermen and their families, it has since grown in popularity and is now enjoyed not only by locals but by people from all around the world.

The genesis of mas huni is shrouded in mystery. Some say it was created by a fisherman’s wife who took pity on her husband, who had returned from a long day of fishing empty-handed, and combined whatever ingredients she had in her pantry to make a filling and nutritious meal. Others claim it was a concoction invented by a wily fisherman who had no catches but also no desire to return home with nothing.

However it came about, this humble dish has become a beloved staple in the Maldives. Traditionally, it is made with smoked fish, grated coconut, diced onion, chilli, garlic, lemon juice and salt. Some recipes also include other ingredients such as ripe tomatoes, but these can vary widely between families.

Mas huni is a wonderfully piquant mix of flavours, combining the zesty citrus of the lemon juice with a savoury richness of the smoked fish. The addition of chilli and garlic adds a delightful kick which is further complemented by the sweet nuttiness of the grated coconut. It is hearty comfort food at its finest and its popularity amongst locals, expats and tourists alike is testament to the fact that it is a truly scrumptious dish!

Whilst this venerable recipe may have humble origins, it is now an undisputed part of Maldivian cuisine. So why not give it a try for yourself and discover why this simple yet scrumptious dish has been cherished for generations?

Types of Mas huni

Culinary enthusiasts are always on the hunt for innovative recipes that will tantalize their taste buds. One of the best dishes for this is mas huni, a Sri Lankan delicacy made with freshly grated coconut and accompanied by curry spices. This delectable dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer at a special event.

The main ingredient in mas huni is freshly grated coconut. This gives the dish a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, while the addition of various herbs and spices, such as cumin and coriander, bring out a spicy kick. Depending on the region, some chefs also add onions and garlic to the mix, as well as tamarind and jaggery sugar, which gives mas huni a unique sweetness.

Mas huni can be served in a variety of ways, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many people enjoy it as a thick porridge made with coconut milk, dry fish and potatoes. Others prefer the classic version, where the grated coconut is mixed with warm oil and spices, then fried. Some even like to shape the mixture into small balls and deep-fry them for a delicious snack.

No matter how you choose to serve it, mas huni is a delicious dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Sri Lankans. Its combination of flavorful spices, fresh ingredients, and unique textures make it a favorite around the world. So the next time you’re in the mood for something new, look no further than mas huni – you won't regret it!