How to Make Maltese Pastizzi: A Step-by-Step Guide

🥐Maltese pastizzi are a popular savory pastry in Malta, known for their flaky texture and delicious fillings.

👩‍🍳Making pastizzi at home requires a few simple ingredients, including plain flour, salt, butter, and either ricotta or pizzella filling.

👌The key to a successful pastizzi dough is getting the right consistency - not too wet and not too dry.

🍽️After resting the dough, it is rolled out and filled with the chosen filling, then folded into a triangular shape.

🔥The pastizzi are baked in a hot oven until golden brown and crispy. They can be enjoyed hot or cold.

What are the traditional fillings for pastizzi?

—The traditional fillings for pastizzi are ricotta cheese or pizzella, which is a combination of peas, onions, and a variety of spices.

Can I use store-bought pastry dough instead of making my own?

—Yes, you can use store-bought puff pastry or shortcrust pastry instead of making your own dough for pastizzi.

How long do pastizzi stay fresh?

—Pastizzi are best enjoyed fresh, on the same day they are made. However, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Can I freeze pastizzi for later?

—Yes, you can freeze uncooked pastizzi for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, simply bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through.

What other variations of pastizzi can I make?

—While ricotta and pizzella are the most common fillings, you can also get creative and try other fillings such as spinach and feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese, or chicken and mushroom.

00:07Introduction by Tom

00:12Making Maltese pastizzi, choice of ricotta or pizzella filling

00:20Measuring out plain flour and adding salt

01:00Adding cold water to the flour mixture gradually

02:52Mixing the dough until fully absorbed and not too sticky

06:02Stretching and rolling the dough for rest

09:02Adding butter to the dough and wrapping it with cling film

12:35Resting the dough overnight or for at least 2 hours