Malta is located on several small rocky islands. Since ancient times, numerous trade routes passed here, which made the state a strategically important object among the conquerors. The islands served as a haven for many travelers and pilgrims, which later reflected on the name of the country, because in Phoenician Malta means “refuge”. According to one of the legends, it was here that Odysseus spent seven years visiting the nymph Calypso.
Picturesque lagoons and pristine beaches welcome millions of tourists every year. In addition, there are numerous international language schools in Malta, where you can learn English, combining study with a pleasant holiday.
At the moment there are two official languages – Maltese and English. Architectural monuments, the legendary Knights of Malta, the richest historical heritage – this is what Malta can surprise and please you at any time of the year. In order to get to know the culture of the country better, to feel its spirit, to understand the habits and traditions of the locals, it is simply necessary to appreciate its traditional cuisine. Our article will discuss what you need to try in Malta and how much it will cost.
What to try in Malta National cuisine has been shaped for centuries under the influence of the traditions of the peoples inhabiting it. It is based on Mediterranean cuisine, but at the same time there is a strong influence of Italian, British, French and Mauritanian culinary specialists. The main ingredients of Maltese cuisine are seafood, vegetables, herbs and fruits.
The menu is dominated by stewed and oven-baked dishes. Olive oil is almost always used in the cooking process. Children’s rest in Valletta What interesting and unusual cafes and restaurants of Malta offer to taste? We have prepared a small list of national dishes. Hobza – bread cooked in the oven according to old recipes. It turns out incredibly fragrant, tasty and crispy. Hobz biz zait – a sandwich made from hobza. Slices of bread are soaked in olive oil and then in tomato sauce.
They are served with tomato, tuna and basil pate. Bigilla is the national food of Malta, with which it is customary to start lunch. This is a bean paste with garlic, herbs, sometimes pickled vegetables or artichokes. The sea surrounds the country from all sides. Lampuka pai – fish baked in dough. Lampuka (dorado) is the most common fish in this area. Arnit Mimli – baked stuffed octopus.
As a rule, pasta is used as a filling. Stuffat tal fenech (Maltese rabbit) is a rabbit stewed with herbs and spices. Fenkata is another popular rabbit meat dish. In this case, the meat is soaked in red wine and then stewed for a long time. Almost all restaurants in Malta offer this dish on their menu. Aglietta is a traditional first course. It is a soup of several types of fish with garlic, tomatoes and spices.
Timpana is a traditional Mediterranean dish, pasta casserole with minced meat. Pastizza – puff pastry pies. This is the most popular food in Malta. It is sold everywhere: in pizzerias, shops and supermarkets. There are even cafes specializing in pastries, they are called “pastizzerias”. Cannoli – sweet rolls with ricotta, chocolate and candied fruit.
Local food prices cannot be called low. But among the many catering establishments, any tourist will find options that will match his financial capabilities. Catering in Malta can be arranged with any budget. Relatively low prices for food – in small cozy restaurants for locals. They are called “pastizzerias”. Here, right in front of you, they bake pastizzas and cook pizza.
sell buns with various fillings, coffee and tea. This is a great option for a quick and inexpensive snack. Local pizzerias are popular with tourists due to relatively low prices. In addition to several types of pizza, you will be offered pasta, ravioli or grilled meats. Next, we will detail how much food costs in Malta.
Even in the most remote places of the island there are many coffee houses, cafes, pastizzerias, restaurants. If you want to try national dishes, be sure to check out some small family tavern. Recent reviews from travelers will help you choose the best restaurant for a meal in your area, so it is advisable to read them at the planning stage of your trip.
