Gozo
A Gozitan historical find! Check out this animal-shaped pot used for cooking rabbit stew back in the day
An 18th-century historian referred to this cooking pot as ‘’il-bakra’’.

Lyndsey Grima

Culinary history at its best! The Citadel Museums and Sites Facebook page has treated their followers to a very interesting artefact that can be physically found at the Gran Castello Historic House in Victoria, Gozo.

Displayed in one of the kitchens is the 'il-baqra,' an animal-shaped ceramic cooking pot affectionately known as the 'cow' in Maltese. According to the 18th-century Gozitan historian Agius de Soldanis, this vessel, referred to as "Bakra," was used for preparing rabbit stew.

The cooking process was a spectacle itself, with ingredients sealed within the 'baqra' and cooked slowly either on a stone stove or over an open fire. The lid, sealed with a mixture of flour and water, allowed steam to escape through the animal's head.

This unique cooking method, described by Agius de Soldanis, brings to life a lost time and culinary tradition, offering a glimpse into traditions that shaped Maltese gastronomy.

Have you ever come across il-’’baqra’’?

21st January 2025


Lyndsey Grima
Written by
Lyndsey Grima
Lyndsey has always been passionate about all things content. She keeps her storytelling skills sharp by exercising physically as she’s a fitness buff and also mentally as she enjoys reading and travelling.

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