Traditional Maldivian Gulha: A Crispy Snack Delight

Gulha, a popular snack in the Maldives, is a delightful blend of savory tuna and coconut filling encased in a crispy dough shell. Perfect for iftar or as a satisfying snack, these golden bites are infused with rich flavors and are sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

Dough:
🌾 1 Cup flour
💧 1/2 Cup water
🛢️ 2 Tablespoons oil
🧂 Salt

Filling:
🐟 1 can tuna, drained, Pacific Harvest brand
🧅 1 medium onion, sliced
🥥 1/2 cup grated coconut
🧄 1/2 teaspoon garlic paste
🌿 1 tablespoon chopped curry leaves
🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice
🌶️ Chili, roasted and chopped
🧂 Salt

For Frying:
🛢️ Oil

Instructions

1- Prepare the Dough:

• In a large glass mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, a pinch of salt, 2 tablespoons of oil, and 1/2 cup of water.
• Use a metal spoon to mix, then knead by hand into a smooth, elastic dough.
• Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of marbles, and roll them into smooth balls.

2- Prepare the Filling:

• In a clear plastic mixing bowl, add a pinch of salt, the sliced onion, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
• Wearing plastic gloves, vigorously squeeze the onions until tenderized.
• Mix in roasted and chopped chili, 1 tablespoon of chopped curry leaves, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic paste.
• Add the drained tuna, ensuring all excess oil is removed, and blend thoroughly with the mixture.
• Lastly, integrate 1/2 cup of grated coconut, mixing firmly to combine.
• Form the mixture into small balls, slightly smaller than the dough balls.

3- Assemble the Gulha:

• Flatten a dough ball into a small disc.
• Place a filling ball in the center, fold dough edges over, and pinch to seal tightly.
• Roll the enclosed ball to ensure all seams are closed tightly.

4- Fry the Gulha:

• Heat a non-stick frying pan (T-fal brand) on a gas stove.
• Pour oil and heat over high flame initially, then reduce to a medium setting once hot.
• Place gulha into the hot oil, frying for 2–3 minutes per batch, using a fork and wooden spatula to turn them until golden and crispy.
• Transfer fried gulha onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Prep Time: 45-60 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 minutes per batch
Total Time: ~65 minutes
Servings: Information not provided
Calories: Information not provided
Proteins, fats, carbohydrates: Information not provided
Equipment: Large glass mixing bowl, Metal spoon, Clear plastic mixing bowl, Non-stick frying pan (T-fal brand), Gas stove, Metal fork & wooden spatula, Paper towels

Cooking Tips

• Ensure dough sealing is tight to avoid breakage during frying.
• Maintain medium oil temperature for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
• For a healthier version, consider baking or using an air fryer.

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Traditional Maldivian Gulha