Cooking
Anantara launches Maldivian cooking classes

Maldives.net.mv – Adding to the Anantara range of Spice Spoons cooking classes in Thailand, Bali, Vietnam, and the United Arab Emirates, the chefs at Anantara in the Maldives have combined their gourmet knowledge to produce a set of 13 Maldivian recipes for a cooking class, creating an indigenous culinary journey for guests.
From serious foodies to hobby chefs, Spice Spoons offers insightful experiences for eager epicureans. The history of food is the history of its people, and exploring a country’s authentic cuisine reveals great insight into its heritage. Maldivian dishes reflect the pure simplicity of island life. Crystal waters abundant with fish encapsulate 26 island atolls where coconut, mangoes, bananas and watermelon grow in abundance. Centuries of trade with the Indian sub-continent, Africa, Arabia and the Far East have enriched the local palate with an exciting blend of herbs and spices from neighbouring continents. The result is an understated cuisine infused with subliminal flavours and nutritional benefits.
Budding master chefs start the morning of culinary discovery with a fresh Thai coconut drink to get their creative juices flowing, before joining the resort’s Thai chef in the Chef’s Garden. As they collect fresh herbs and vegetables the chef explains the different uses of these in Maldivian cuisine.
Back at the kitchen participants don their specially designed Spice Spoons aprons, which are theirs to keep as a memento of this unique experience. A theory class may not be what holidaymakers had in mind when packing for paradise, but the real life setting of a working kitchen soon turns any angst into amazement when culinary techniques are explained, kitchen skills are demonstrated and tricks of the trade are shared.
With the assistance of the chef, the newfound culinary knowledge is put into practice when participants each prepare a three-course menu of Maldivian tongue-twisting dishes. These dishes not only clearly demonstrate the basic principles of Maldivian cuisine, but all the ingredients can also be easily found when wanting to impress family and friends back home. Once the chef nods his head in approval that all students have mastered the art of Maldivian cooking, aprons are discarded, beverages are paired and served by waiters stepping in to bring the culinary master pieces to the table.
When staying at Anantara Hotels & Resorts, enquire about the Spice Spoons Culinary Journey. As a reminder of the engaging gastronomic experience, students take home an apron, a shopping bag, a chopping board and a certificate, as well as a set of recipe cards complete with beverage recommendations for each dish. Anantara also offers Thai Spice Spoons cooking classes upon request to learn about the diverse and tantalising cuisine of salty, sour, spicy and sweet tastes of Thailand. Visit www.anantara.com and www.naladhu.com to reserve your stay.
Cooking
Michelin-Star magic: Chef Igles Corelli to host exclusive culinary week at Lily Beach Resort

Lily Beach Resort & Spa has announce an exclusive culinary collaboration with renowned Italian chef and Gambero Rosso TV personality, Michelin-Star Chef Igles Corelli. This special event will take place from 11th to 18th August 2025, bringing Corelli’s award-winning expertise and distinctive culinary philosophy to the Maldives for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Chef Igles Corelli rose to national and international prominence during the 1980s and 1990s as the head chef of the legendary Il Trigabolo in Ferrara, where he earned two Michelin stars and played a pivotal role in ushering in a new era of Italian cuisine. He later founded La Locanda della Tamerice, which earned another Michelin star, and served as executive chef of Atman, further solidifying his reputation for innovation and excellence in the culinary world.
In 2012, Chef Corelli introduced the concept of Circular Cooking on the Gambero Rosso Channel—a zero-waste culinary philosophy that aligns seamlessly with Lily Beach’s commitment to mindful, ingredient-focused cuisine.
Lily Beach is internationally celebrated for its pristine natural beauty, five-star hospitality, and world-class dining experiences. With a wide array of restaurants and bars, the resort offers something to please every palate—from refined à la carte dinners and vibrant live cooking stations to fresh, global cuisine served in relaxed, beachfront settings. Culinary highlights include gourmet international buffets at Lily Maa and signature overwater Asian fusion at Tamarind, each meal elevated by breathtaking ocean views and genuine Maldivian warmth.
During his stay, Chef Corelli will conduct a full-day training session with the resort’s in-house culinary team, culminating in a one-night-only Signature Dinner for guests. In addition, he will curate a daily ‘Dish of the Day’ featured on AQVA Restaurant’s lunch menu throughout the week.
This collaboration reflects Lily Beach’s ongoing dedication to providing exceptional gastronomic experiences. Guests will enjoy the rare opportunity to explore the artistry of a chef who has shaped the course of Italian cuisine and inspired generations of culinary professionals.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives’ South Ari Atoll, this culinary event promises a week of elevated dining, innovation, and unforgettable flavours.
Cooking
Ifuru Island Maldives’ Social House introduces authentic Indian Thali experience

Ifuru Island Maldives has unveiled its newest culinary journey: the Indian Thali at Social House. This signature dining experience pays homage to the vibrant flavours, diversity, and cultural warmth of Indian cuisine, reimagined in the heart of the Maldives.
Inspired by Ayurveda’s Six Taste Theory, the Indian Thali is designed to provide a perfectly balanced meal that nourishes both body and soul. Guests can savour an array of authentic dishes that reflect India’s culinary soul, presented with the modern flair and island elegance that define Ifuru Island.

The Thali includes a generous spread of delights such as Jhinga Laziz, Butter Chicken, Boti Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Chana Masala, Tomato Rasam, served alongside Jeera Rice, Paratha, Mango Chutney, Masala Onion, Papadum, and a decadent Gulab Jamun Cheesecake.
“Crafting this Indian Thali has been a labour of love,” says Nadedja Bouacha, Executive Chef at Ifuru Island Maldives. “Each element is carefully prepared to honour India’s diverse culinary heritage while offering our guests a rich, comforting, and authentic experience in a setting as extraordinary as our island.”
The Indian Thali is now available at Social House, the resort’s popular dining venue known for blending global flavors with local flair and laid-back luxury.
Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or a first-time explorer, the Indian Thali at Ifuru Island is a celebration of culture, taste, and mindful eating.
Cooking
Gluten-free, vegan baking takes centre stage in Maldives with BBM, IREKS

Renowned Master Baker Steven Selvamuthu from IREKS is currently in the Maldives, leading a specialised baking demo tour focused on gluten-free and vegan baked goods. The initiative, organised by Bestbuy Maldives (BBM), is running from May 3rd to 15th and is covering over 10 leading resorts along with professional bakers in Malé.
Through hands-on sessions and live demonstrations, Chef Steven is sharing innovative techniques and versatile recipes tailored to modern dietary trends, while also addressing real-world challenges faced by professional kitchens.
Sharing his experience so far, Chef Steven said: “The growing interest in gluten-free and vegan baking here is truly inspiring. Maldivian chefs are open-minded, eager to learn, and ready to embrace global trends without compromising on quality or flavour.”
This ongoing collaboration between IREKS and BBM reflects a shared commitment to professional development in the region’s foodservice industry. By introducing modern baking solutions and supporting skill-building at the grassroots level, the initiative is adding value to both local talent and resort kitchens.
A.V.S. Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer at BBM, added: “As consumer preferences evolve, we want to ensure that Maldivian chefs are equipped to meet those expectations with confidence. Our partnership with IREKS reflects BBM’s mission to bring world-class expertise and ingredients closer to the local culinary community.”
With rising demand for inclusive and health-conscious bakery options, the ongoing tour is playing a key role in empowering chefs across the Maldives to stay ahead in a rapidly shifting global food landscape.
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