November Bones, or "Għadam tal-Mejtin" are bone-shaped almond sweets made for All Souls' Day (November 2nd) and throughout November. They symbolize the dead and are part of Maltese traditions honoring the departed.
The idea for this cheesecake came when I had a couple of figolli which didn’t turn out so nice. So I created a baked almond flavoured cheesecake with a golden figolla crust. Just a different way to enjoy figolli.
A popular Maltese biscuit consumed mainly during Lent and its name comes from the Latin word ‘quaresima’ which refers to the 40 days of Lent. As per tradition, it’s also made without using any dairy or fats.
March 20th is World’s Flour Day. Nothing smells nicer than a freshly baked olive loaf. You can use any kind of flour but for this recipe, we are using wholemeal. So easy to make! No kneading is required.
Zeppoli, from the Italian ‘Zeppole’ or ‘Bignè di San Giuseppe’, are made with deep-fried choux pastry filled with sweetened ricotta similar to a cannoli filling. Sometimes it’s also filled with custard and this is eaten to celebrate Saint Joseph’s Day.
Minestra is a Maltese traditional vegetable soup very similar to the Italian Minestrone. Rich with beans and mixed pulses hearty soup is very healthy. Also very easy to make, you can simply throw everything in a pot, add water, and simmer. I prefer to lightly fry the onion, carrots, and celery first to give it more flavour. Nonetheless, the result is always guaranteed! You can also add some small pasta in the end.
Tiramisù is a rich layered Italian dessert made with Savoiardi (ladyfinger biscuits), strong espresso and Mascarpone cheese. This is my caramel version and contains no eggs.
Kusksu is a traditional Maltese soup made with fava beans, Gozo 'ġbejniet' and pasta beads or 'kusksu' pasta. My Ch-eat here is turning this delicious soup into a baked casserole. I can assure you that the result is absolutely delicious. Ideally use fresh fava beans when they are in season but frozen or canned can work just fine too.
Not exactly an Asian variation but a 'cheat' on the Maltese Traditional Imqaret using wonton wrappers instead of the traditional dough. This makes them lighter and crispier.
Although they look similar this is a 'cheat' on the traditional November Bones. Filled with everyone's favourite Kit Kat and Maltesers, it is an alternative for those who don't like the traditional filling.
This is Ch-EAT's take on these Maltese famous biscuits. Traditionally served at Christenings and decorated with blue or pink icing swirls, these little treats go perfectly with that cup of tea or coffee. This recipe makes around 10 large biscuits.
Who doesn't like stuffed marrows? Whether baked with potatoes, steamed or boiled within a soup, these are definitely a Maltese favourite. This is Ch-EAT's version of this dish. You can serve it with baked or mashed potatoes and vegetables. Gravy is optional.
Leftover Panettone from Christmas? If not, you can always buy it at a heavily discounted price. Add some Baci, and it's a match made in h-Oven! Trust me it's delicious!
Steamed minute steak is a Maltese favourite. Simple and delicious. Traditionally cooked on top of a pot of soup or chicken broth and made with parsley and green garlic.
Ch-EAT's recipe includes potatoes and garlic cloves, but that's entirely up to you.
This is a variation of the traditional figolli recipe. Adding cream cheese to your filling will make a moist filling that melts in your mouth.