Don't Read if you're on a Diet!

WARNING: This post contains elements that are guaranteed to cause weight gain if created. May make your taste buds throb and crave more. If you are on a strict diet, I encourage you to come back and read after your diet is complete.

Who doesn't love food? One of my favorite past times weather it'd be family, friends or maybe just at a cocktail party discussing food recipes or modifications to recipes that have already been tried.  

In my previous post, we discussed the different aspects and similarities between Italian and Maltese culture which included family structure, environment and food. The food between the two cultures have vast similarities with a few different twists. Both countries have a similar high carbohydrate, lots of meat and large portions of food. Pasta is a huge must with every meal (yes, even breakfast!). It is not uncommon to have four course dinners. But what differs Maltese meals and foods from Italian Foods and meals? 

In my opinion, the Maltese took from the Italians and made it better. So, what is typical Maltese Food?

Octopus

This is different from calamari (or fried squid) as it is usually more in it's natural form. Octopus is used to make stew, used as a flavoring in spaghetti and also is a good snack.

Pastizzi

This is pronounced: PAH-Stit-Zi.



While I have been saying that the Maltese took from the Italians and made it better, they took from the French on this one and gave it their own kick. In short, this popular treat among all Maltese people is similar to a croissant with it's flaky texture. However, on the inside it can include meat, cheese or peas depending on what you savor.

Maltese Easter Biscuits (Figolli)



This delicious treat is common at Easter time (I say Easter because Malta is 98% Catholic). This is a great challenge for those wanting to bake, or try cookies with a little bit of a different spin on it. The recipes main ingredient is a lemon zest with almonds.

These are just three foods of Malta's very diverse array of delicious foods. I could go on and on about Malta's foods. If you want to learn more or have any favorites, let me know in the comments below!

What is Malta?

Take a moment to close your eyes and think about your favorite travel destination. Maybe you consider this a place away from home. Maybe it is a common destination among various individuals. Maybe it’s not well known at all. I personally am the latter, as my favorite travel destination is known as Malta.

What/Where is Malta?

First, and foremost – Malta is NOT a part of Italy. This is a common misconception among individuals not familiar with Malta or Europe. Often, this is due to its small size and the similarities in culture but Malta is a separate country from Italy.

Malta is located just 58 miles south of Sicily:

What is Maltese Culture like?

While Malta is not apart of Italy, it's awfully similar in it's culture and traditions. Maltese families are typically large, loud, and very close. The grandmother (or Nanna as it is referred to in Maltese) is seen as the matriarch and is often the Alpha of the family. Lots of gatherings, large parties and lots and lots of....Carbs.

What language do the Maltese people speak?

Maltese people are commonly multi-lingual and speak multiple languages; however, the official language is Maltese. Maltese is the only semetic language use in the EU, and it has similarities  as Arabic languages.

What is the climate like in Malta?

The climate in Malta is very similar to if Arizona had an ocean surrounding it. Dry, but with a touch of humidity.

Throughout this blog I am going to discuss my own experiences in Malta, different parts of the culture and the Maltese culture in America specifically in Detroit.