MALTESE CLASSICS “Great love affairs start with champagne and end with tisane.” Honoré de Balzac
MALTESE TEATIME TREATS Many who grew up in the 70s, 80s and 90s in Malta will remember their parents or grandparents with various biscuits and Biskuttini tar-rahal kept in tins which were brought out for teatime. Opening and closing, and reopening and closing over time would create dents and scuff marks on these tins which would become part of the family, keeping their contents fresh and hidden away like treasure until their next appearance at table. Firm favourites included crisp Ottijiet covered in sesame seeds and Krustini with almonds (with little hands always looking for the pieces which had most almonds). Biskuttini tallewz were kept for special occasions, often with someone's nanna, aunt or neighbour baking a batch for a Holy Communion or birthday party. David Vella, one of chef instructors at The Mediterranean Culinary Academy shares his secrets to making these Maltese treats. Photography Jessica Zammit. 63
