Choose Your Shop
Traditional Maltese Feast Food
Our Favourite Part of Summer
Summer in Malta would not be the same without its vibrant traditions. One of the most celebrated traditions in Summer would be the local village feasts, each dedicated to a different patron saint. For us foodies, the highlight of such events is the food! The kiosks, the stalls, the food trucks, endless options to choose from and all bursting with Maltese flavour. Check out our favourite treats from local Maltese feasts.
Imqaret
Imqaret are a kind of Maltese pastry filled with dates. Their origin, however, dates back to the Arabs’ influence on the Maltese culture. Imqaret are so popular with the locals, you can even find them on the dessert menu in restaurants, event catering menus and in cafeterias around the Island. Inside, they are filled with a paste made from dates mixed with cinnamon, aniseed, cloves, orange flower water and orange zest. The paste is then wrapped in the dough and deep fried. For an extra sweet kick, pair imqaret with a scoop of vanilla ice-cream.
Qubbajt (Nougat)
The traditional Maltese nougat has also been around for quite some time now, going all the way back to the time of the Knights of St. John in Malta. One may find two variations of this local delicacy: hard nougat with almonds and nut brittle or soft nougat with almonds and hazelnuts. The soft version can change its colour depending on the celebration in which it would be participating. There is also a third version, often associated with children, locally known as ‘peniti’. This would be a smaller and thinner bar of nougat wrapped in shiny colours. Just make sure to really savour and appreciate the craft behind it next time you have a bite of nougat, because there are only a few individuals who specialise in making such treats left on the Island.
Donuts
Donuts are not part of the local cuisine; however, they have certainly made their way into the local feast’s traditions. Looking back on our childhood, there is sure to be some kind of memory which involves begging your parents or guardians to buy you a glazed donut during the feast period. The classic ones are the sugar donuts, but one can find a variety of toppings to choose from including chocolate, sprinkles, jam and more!
A wide variety of quality ingredients are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.
Stay up to date with our seasonal posts - https://arkadiafoodstore.com/seasonal/
Tell your Facebook friends about it.