Each year, more people choose to participate in Dry January, and the number of participants continues to grow. Globally, it’s estimated that 2025 will see an increase on the 25 million who took part in Veganuary this year, making it the biggest year yet for exploration of plant-based foods¹.

Embrace a New Year with a healthy, flavour-packed journey at Nova Maldives. This stunning island resort in the Maldives invites you to celebrate Dry January and Veganuary 2025 with delicious plant-based and alcohol-free offerings that capture the essence of Maldivian wellness and island living.

Throughout January, guests will be invited to dive deeper into wellness with hands-on cocktail-making classes led by Nova’s expert mixologists, perfect for honing skills while enjoying the serene surroundings.

From wholesome dining at Soul Kitchen to refreshing signature mocktails at Wink bar, Nova has created a vibrant array of dishes and drinks just for January! Highlights include the Maldivian Coconut & Vegetable Curry and Kopee Faiy Salad, blending local, sustainably sourced ingredients for a true taste of island culture. Their new alcohol-free drink options include a tropical Solis Sunset Cooler, an ode to Nova’s vistas of the beautiful South Ari Atoll’s sunsets, and a Cucumber Basil Fizz.

Want to try them at home? Full recipes are available to bring a taste of the Maldives into your kitchen. What better time to get creative in the kitchen with some culinary exploration rooted in island-inspired cuisine? 

Tharukaaree Riha is a beloved Maldivian dish that beautifully combines fresh, locally sourced vegetables simmered in creamy coconut milk. This curry is not only flavourful but also embodies the essence of Maldivian culinary traditions, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a hearty, plant-based meal, while supporting local farmers and agricultural practices. Full recipe available here.

Accompanying our curry is the refreshing Kopee Faiy Salad, a simple yet delicious side dish made with Kopee Faiy leaves, grated coconut, lime juice, and a sprinkle of salt. This salad brings a burst of freshness to your meal, making it the perfect complement to any dish and is super easy to make with only five ingredients. Full recipe available here.

For an added twist, enjoy our Grilled Eggplant and Tomato Stack, now enhanced with crispy, fried slices of breadfruit as a garnish. This dish combines the savoury flavours of grilled vegetables, with a homemade herby pesto with refreshing cilantro and basil, offering a satisfying and nutritious option for those wanting to participate in Veganuary. Full recipe available here.

To elevate your dining experience, Nova has also crafted two signature mocktails throughout January 2025:

Solis Sunset Cooler: A tropical blend of passion fruit juice, fresh lime, and coconut water, topped with soda for a refreshing finish.

Cucumber Basil Fizz: This invigorating concoction combines fresh cucumber and lemon juices with basil syrup, creating a vibrant and refreshing option.

Mocktail recipes available here.

“At Nova, we’re passionate about showcasing authentic Maldivian cuisine, which is rich in fresh, plant-based ingredients,” says Abdulla Aboobakuru Nova’s General Manager. “With the growing global trend towards mindful eating and health-conscious choices, our new recipes not only highlight local produce like coconuts, spices, and tropical fruits but also cater to those looking for sustainable and nourishing dining options”.

Reconnect with nature, wellness, and joy at Nova – where the Indian Ocean meets culinary innovation for a memorable 2025. For more on Nova’s wellness-inspired offering year-round, visit their website.