If you ask me, what I miss the most from Malta, I would answer without hesitation that it's the food. You would probably be in awe and assume I'm heartless. Why don't I miss my family, and my friends the most?
Well, I could answer that in a heartbeat. The people I care about and love, I stay in touch with as much as possible, and furthermore they know that whenever they want, they could always come visit me.
Well, I could answer that in a heartbeat. The people I care about and love, I stay in touch with as much as possible, and furthermore they know that whenever they want, they could always come visit me.
However, when it comes to Maltese food, until a couple of weeks ago, it was impossible for me to enjoy it, unless I am in Malta. It is true, I do visit Malta almost every other month... But sometimes the cravings are too much to bare. My mission impossible started one evening, when my friend David mentioned pastizzi. I realised that I couldn't take it any longer, and as such I had to do something about it.
I searched and search, and when I was about to give up, I came across a website with an interview with Alan Camilleri; a guy who lives in Manchester and who has his own shop, selling traditional Maltese food and drinks. I figured, I could be on a train from Stoke to Manchester in 50minutes. But to my astonishment, Alan delivers around the UK once every month, for a maximum fee of £12.50.
That very moment, I placed an order, and last week it was delivered to my house. I spent quite a lot of money to make up for the delivery cost, and I'm sure this wouldn't be the last purchase. Alan has been very helpful, even provided me with cooking instructions for the 'hobza tal-Malti' (traditional Maltese bread). The photo in this article, of the pastizzi, are from this very order.
I have never thought that I would be enjoying the traditional Maltese pastizzi and tea here in the UK!
Place an order here: Mediterranean Pastry, and if you actually make an order after reading this brief review, please do let me know. :-)
Ah that's just great :) Maltese in the UK are so attached to their roots, last time I saw an ice cream van bearing the Maltese flag on its back just outside Kew gardens! when i asked the guy about it he said his dad moved to London from Malta in the 70's and made a living selling the traditional ice cream recipe of the family. I like these little nuggets of our culture around the world
ReplyDeleteExactly. And to be completely honest, now that I'm away from Malta, I'm appreciating the Maltese things/ways much more. When you are far away, the heart grows fonder. Cliche I know, but so true.
DeleteYes Steffi its only when you have left the Island you realise what you have left, almost everyone I have met including myself has admitted to this and it so helps to find people in the UK who provide us with some of the home comforts. Steve Frost
ReplyDeleteOh yes, it makes all the difference. And I'm currently eating Maltese food at least once every week. Hard to resist! Thanks for reading btw :-)
DeleteI have used Alan's outlet and was really impressed with the service he offered and quality of the products provided. Just finished one order and will be placing another one shortly. He delivers all over the UK, even to Royal Wootton Bassett!!! (Wiltshire)
DeleteWhat's the name of the website please?
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately this shop has closed now. Please try the following: https://www.facebook.com/lovebakesandcakes.uk if you live close to London. Good luck!
DeleteOh :( Ok thanks anyway.
ReplyDeleteSorry... unfortunately he moved back to Malta. Coming to think of it, there's also: http://www.med-delights.co.uk - I have personally bought from this website too. The pastizzi are great, and so are the wudy sausages. Enjoy :-)
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