The island’s iconic dish: coconut crab simmered in a creamy coconut milk curry with chili, lemongrass, and turmeric — luxurious, spicy, and deeply local. ¹⁾

Fresh reef fish marinated with tamarind, ginger, and chili, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over an open flame. ²⁾

Steamed coconut rice served with spicy tuna curry and pickled vegetables — a traditional Malay meal adapted to the island’s flavors. ³⁾

Tender squid cooked in a fiery sambal sauce made from red chilies, shallots, and shrimp paste — bold and aromatic. ⁴⁾

Fragrant rice stir-fried with coconut flakes, prawns, vegetables, and a touch of chili — a signature comfort food across the islands. ⁵⁾

A creamy noodle soup with coconut milk, prawns, fish cakes, and bean sprouts, infused with lemongrass and curry paste — deeply warming and rich. ⁶⁾

A popular side dish of stir-fried morning glory leaves with chili and shrimp paste — fresh, salty, and spicy. ⁷⁾

A bold island favorite — fish heads simmered in sambal and tamarind sauce, served with steamed rice for an umami-packed experience. ⁸⁾

Skewered chicken marinated in turmeric and coconut milk, grilled and served with a sweet, spicy peanut sauce. ⁹⁾

Juicy prawns tossed in a fragrant sauce of coconut cream, lime leaves, and chili — light but deeply satisfying. ¹⁰⁾

Compressed rice cooked in woven palm leaf packets, often served with curries and spicy gravies during communal feasts. ¹¹⁾

Soft pancakes made with coconut milk and shredded coconut, topped with dark, caramel-like palm sugar syrup. ¹²⁾

Sweet mashed bananas mixed with flour, fried into golden fritters — a beloved island snack. ¹³⁾

Tangy, spicy curry of local reef fish cooked in tamarind juice, turmeric, and chili — a dish that captures the Indian Ocean’s soul. ¹⁴⁾

Pearly sago cooked in coconut milk and palm sugar, often chilled and served as a refreshing dessert in the humid island heat. ¹⁵⁾