Boakibaa Fish Cake Platter (Boakibaa)

Name: Boakibaa Fish Cake Platter (Boakibaa)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Maldives
Ingredients: Cooked, flaked tuna — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz); Grated coconut — 1 cup (80 g / 3 oz); Onion, finely chopped — 1; Green chillies, finely chopped — 2; Curry powder — 1 tsp; Turmeric — 1/2 tsp; Rice flour — 1/2 cup (60 g / 2 oz); Eggs — 3; Oil, plus extra for greasing — 2 tbsp; Salt — to taste

The Quirky Foodster Team

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20 min

Prep

40 min

Cook

Servings

Ingredients

Cooked, flaked tuna — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
Grated coconut — 1 cup (80 g / 3 oz)
Onion, finely chopped — 1
Green chillies, finely chopped — 2
Curry powder — 1 tsp
Turmeric — 1/2 tsp
Rice flour — 1/2 cup (60 g / 2 oz)
Eggs — 3
Oil, plus extra for greasing — 2 tbsp
Salt — to taste

Method

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish.
Combine the flaked tuna, grated coconut, onion, chilli, curry powder and turmeric in a large bowl.
Add the rice flour and mix well.
Beat the eggs with the oil and salt, then fold into the tuna mixture until evenly combined.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Cool for 10 minutes before slicing into squares for serving.

Introduction: A dense, savoury baked fish cake made with tuna, onion and spices, traditionally prepared for special gatherings and festive tables.

Cultural Background: Savoury boakibaa is baked in a large tray and cut into pieces, making it a practical dish for feeding a crowd during celebrations such as weddings and religious holidays, when Maldivian households cook to host many guests at once.

Tips: Press the mixture down firmly before baking so it holds together neatly when sliced. Let it cool slightly before cutting for the cleanest slices.

Variations: Add a layer of sliced hard-boiled egg through the middle for a festive presentation. Top with a sprinkle of extra curry powder before baking for a deeper colour.

Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat slices in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes, or in a microwave for 1 minute.

Nutrition: Per serving (approx.): 300 kcal, 22 g protein, 17 g fat, 14 g carbohydrate.

FAQs:

Q: Can boakibaa be made ahead for a party?

A: Yes, it bakes well in advance and can be served at

Q: Is boakibaa always savoury?

A: There is also a popular sweet version, foni boakibaa, made