Pastizzi and Ftira: Malta’s tastiest snacks
A portion of kibbeling from the market, a special frikandel from Febo or some fries from the local snack bar around the corner. The Dutch love snacking, but did you know you can do this in Malta too? The Maltese cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean cuisines, so there are many different Maltese delicacies. Two popular Maltese snacks are Pastizzi and Ftira. You can find them all over the island.
Pastizzi
Puff pastry with the savory ‘crunch’ of filo pastry, available with various fillings; Maltese Pastizzi are at the heart of Malta’s street food scene. The people of Malta prefer to eat this delicacy between breakfast and lunch. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it at other times of the day. For the filling of this popular Maltese snack, you can choose between piżelli (spiced, soft, mashed peas) or creamy local ricotta cheese. In some places on the island, you have even more options, but these two are among the classics. All varieties are packed with flavor, so be sure to try as many as possible. It won’t break the bank either, as in many places you can buy this typical Maltese snack for less than one euro.
Ftira
Would you like something other than pizza calzone, but do you love everything similar to it? Then try Maltese Ftira. In English, this dish is better known as ‘Maltese bread’. Traditional Ftira looks a bit like a bagel made from flatbread, but it isn’t one. For locals, Ftira is a perfect summer snack. It is almost always summer-like weather in Malta, which means it is eaten everywhere and at all times. You can customize the filling to your own taste, but traditional Ftira consists of tuna, tomato purée, fresh tomatoes, capers, olives, red onion and basil. Many locals add traditional Maltese ġbejna (Maltese sausage) to their Ftira.
Cheap, unique and romantic
Picture this: You’re sitting on a bench somewhere at the tip of the island. You have a view of the sea and the afternoon sun is shining beautifully on the water. Birds are chirping all around you and in your hand you have a box of traditional Ftira. The aroma of fresh herbs, tomato and garlic is released from the box as soon as you open it. With your bottle of wine, it creates a wonderfully romantic setting.
In Malta, there are many places like this where you can sit and enjoy snacks you brought yourself. Here are three tips for the perfect location to eat your Maltese snack:
Dingli Cliffs
The Dingli Cliffs can be found southwest of the village of Dingli. These high cliffs offer views of the sea and the uninhabited island of Filfla. In the evening, you can even watch the beautiful sunset from this spot. This is only possible in a few places, making it a unique place to visit! So bring your picnic blanket, bottle of wine and Pastizzi, and you’re all set for a romantic evening at the Dingli Cliffs!
Upper Barakka Gardens
In Valletta, you’ll find a public garden that, together with the Lower Barrakka Gardens, offers a wonderful view of the Grand Harbour. The gardens are rich in special plants and form an oasis of peace. And there’s also a panoramic view. The ideal place to relax with a delicious Ftira or Pastizzi.
Along the waterfront in Marsaxlokk
Marsaxlokk is a fishing village in Malta. You can find the typical Maltese fishing boats here. The village is already worth visiting, especially on Sundays, when the fish market is held. At this market, you can buy not only fish but also other Maltese delicacies, including, you guessed it, Pastizzi. Got them at the market? Then sit down on one of the many benches along the waterfront. This gives you a view of Marsaxlokk’s colorful boats.
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