Malta is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea that is known for its rich history and cultural influences from a variety of sources, including Phoenician, Roman, Arab, and British. As a result, Maltese cuisine is a unique and diverse blend of flavors and ingredients. Here are some popular dishes that are typically associated with Malta:
- Pastizzi: These are small, savory pastries filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas. They are a popular snack in Malta and can be found at most local bakeries.
- Rabbit Stew: Rabbit is a popular ingredient in Maltese cuisine, and it is often cooked in a stew with vegetables and spices.
- Fenkata: This is a traditional Maltese dish made with slow-roasted rabbit or octopus, served with potatoes, onions, and a variety of spices.
- Gbejniet: These are small, round cheeses made from sheep’s milk, and they are often served as part of a traditional Maltese platter with a selection of other local cheeses and meats.
- Imqarrun il-Forn: This is a baked dish made with layers of pasta, ground meat, and a rich tomato sauce. It is a popular comfort food in Malta.
- Timpana: This is a baked pasta dish that is typically made with layers of pasta, a meat and tomato sauce, and hard-boiled eggs. It is a popular dish for special occasions in Malta.
- Torta tal-Majjal: This is a traditional Maltese dessert made with a layer of shortcrust pastry, a layer of almond paste, and a layer of sponge cake. It is often dusted with powdered sugar and served with a side of ice cream.