Easter weekend, and the 40-day period of Lent preceding, is a time of special significance in Malta and Gozo. As one of the most revered and celebrated religious feasts in the Maltese Islands, it has also inspired some of the best local traditional foods, that can be found literally nowhere else in the world. Don’t miss the chance to sample some of these unique foods this Easter in Malta

Figolli

Perhaps the most famous of Malta’s Easter goodies, ‘Figolli’ are available in almost every supermarket and corner shop across the Maltese Islands from as early as the beginning of Lent. Figolli are exquisitely iced cakes (or, arguably, biscuits) with a soft almond and zesty citrus filling, which can be found in a seemingly endless number of shapes including lambs, butterflies or rabbits. Figolli are traditionally given as gifts to family and friends on Easter Sunday, as an alternative to a chocolate Easter egg.

Karamelli tal-Harrub

‘Karamelli tal-Harrub’, or carob caramel sweets, are traditionally the only sweets allowed during Lent, due to their supposed medicinal properties. Made from carob pods which are boiled until caramelised along with honey, these little square caramels are allegedly bursting with the health benefits of the carob.

Kwareżimal

With a name derived from the Latin word ‘quaresima’, which refers to the 40 days of Lent, ‘kwareżimal’ is a sweet treat made at this time of year. Crafted from mixed spices, ground and chopped almonds, and drizzled with honey, the recipe for this spiced chewy cake manages to avoid any kind of animal protein, eggs or dairy products, making it the ideal Lenten sweet for those observing the penance and fasting.

Qaghaq tal-Appostli

The ‘Qaghaq tal-Appostli’, or Apostle’s ring bread, is a special circular loaf of bread that is traditionally baked specifically for Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and sold near churches across Malta. Today, however, this unique loaf can also often be found throughout the Lenten period in most bakeries or supermarkets. Shaped in a ring, this slightly-sweet bread has a very soft inside and is topped with roasted almonds and sesame seeds.

On the hunt for any of these delicacies? Visit The Bridge Bar at Radisson Blu Resort, St Julian’s to try out some of their delicious Easter treats!