Maltese bread is undoubtedly one of the island’s best food products. For those who grew up next to an operating bakery, the smell of freshly baked bread is one of the most comforting sensations in the world. For those who didn’t, Maltese bread is almost as heartening.
Amongst the most versatile of breads, it can pull off any food topping and leave you wanting more. Don’t believe me? Then put your carb-counting aside and give these options a try:
1. Sundried tomato spread
Forget commercial spreads, find yourself a homemade version and dig into this incredibly salty but insanely satisfying snack. DISCLAIMER: If you suffer from high blood pressure, then this one to avoid.
2. Toast
This may sound boring, but if done in proper Maltese fashion it can turn into quite a treat. In the name of jaw acrobatics, cut yourself a thick slice, wrestle a bit with your toaster to slide it in and then lather it with copious amounts of butter or margarine. In case you're wondering, this is how Maltese kids learnt the definition of hangover food.
3. Omelette sandwich
If taken literally, it is a thick slice of bread layered with an omelette, but more creative sandwiches can include spreads, mashed avocados and salad vegetables. It makes for a hearty breakfast or brunch and can even double as a quick lunch or dinner fix.
4. BLT
This one may not be a traditionally Maltese combo, but it’s satisfying all right! Fancy sandwiches generally need particular types of bread, but a BLT (bacon, lettuce, tomatoes) enclosed in chunky slices of Maltese bread is the ultimate definition of a rustic culinary orgasm. Want something heartier? Replace the bacon with a burger. You're welcome.
5. Gravy dip
One of its most underrated uses is to lap up the gravy residue from a roast meat dish. Trust me, this is one option you do NOT want to be sceptical about.
6. Bread bowl soup
Although not familiar with the origins of this food trend, you can’t deny that it seems to have been fashioned with Maltese bread in mind!
7. Hobz biz-zejt
The ultimate beachside snack involves Maltese bread, kunserva (regular tomato spread), canned tuna and giardiniera (an Italian concoction of pickled vegetables). Although this usually asks for a more durable form of Maltese bread (a.k.a the ftira) it makes for a quite an experience to get yourself through this sandwich with regular Maltese bread as the oil breaks through the sandwich’s soft interior. Definitely not for people who eat pizza with a fork and knife.
8. Pizza bread
Just a regular pizza minus the pizza base! Compile your favourite toppings and pop it into the microwave for a quick and delectable snack!
BONUS: Nutella Sandwich
We'll leave this picture to speak for itself, but if you want my personal suggestion try toasting the bread before letting the nutella loose.
Which combination is your favourite?