Ftira
A Maltese flatbread, often filled with tomatoes, onions, tuna, capers, and olives.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Ftira's history is deeply intertwined with Malta's. The island's strategic location in the Mediterranean has led to various cultural influences throughout the centuries, including Phoenician, Roman, Arab, and Italian. These influences are reflected in Maltese cuisine, particularly in Ftira, showcasing a blend of Mediterranean flavors and baking traditions, adapted to local ingredients and tastes.
Ftira is more than just food; it represents Maltese identity and is a staple in family gatherings, picnics, and casual meals. It reflects the simplicity and resourcefulness of Maltese cuisine, using readily available local ingredients.
Picnic Staple
Ftira is a popular choice for picnics, day trips to Gozo, and beach outings, offering a convenient and satisfying meal that embodies the Maltese spirit of enjoying the outdoors.
Family Tradition
Ftira preparation and consumption are often family affairs, with each family having its own unique twist on the filling and baking method, passed down through generations.
Local Ingredients
The use of local Maltese ingredients, such as tomatoes, olive oil, and Ġbejna, highlights the island's agricultural heritage and strengthens the connection between food and place.
Ftira boasts a savory and robust flavor profile, combining the freshness of tomatoes, the sharpness of onions, the saltiness of tuna, the tang of capers, and the briny notes of olives.
The foundation of Ftira lies in its bread, which is typically a slightly chewy and airy flatbread, often sourdough-based. The most common filling includes ripe Maltese tomatoes (often pureed or sliced), thinly sliced red onions, chunks of oil-packed tuna, salty capers, pitted black olives, and a drizzle of Maltese olive oil. Herbs like fresh basil or mint are often added for extra freshness. Some variations include local cheese like Ġbejna or Maltese sausage.
Dough Matters
The ftira dough should be proofed well to give it an airy texture. Sourdough starters create the most authentic taste.
Tomato Preparation
Using a mix of pureed and sliced ripe Maltese tomatoes provides both moisture and texture. Season the tomatoes generously with salt and pepper.
Ingredient Layering
Layer the ingredients thoughtfully, placing the tomatoes at the bottom to soak into the bread, and the tuna, capers, and olives on top for a balanced flavor distribution.
Olive Oil is Key
Don't skimp on the Maltese olive oil! A generous drizzle before and after baking adds richness and flavor.
Baking Temperature
Bake at a high temperature to ensure the crust is crispy and the inside is cooked through. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
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