Among Malta’s gastronomic treasures, Maltese Cheeselets stand out as savory, bite-sized delights. “Ġbejna” as it is called in Maltese, is the diminutive of the Maltese word ġobna, which means “cheese”;
How Are Maltese Cheeselets Made?
Maltese Cheeselets, locally known as “Ġbejniet,” are petite cheese rounds made from either goat’s milk or a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk. The process begins by heating the milk and adding rennet or vinegar to curdle it. The curds are then separated from the whey and formed into small, circular shapes. These cheeselets are often salted and left to air-dry, which gives them a unique texture and flavor. Ġbejniet are prepared and served in a variety of forms: fresh (friski or tal-ilma), sundried (moxxa, bajda or t’Għawdex), salt cured (maħsula), or peppered (tal-bżar). The fresh variety have a smooth texture and a milky flavour and are kept in their own whey in a similar manner to mozzarella. The sundried variety have a more definite, nutty almost musky taste, and are fairly hard. The peppered variety are covered in crushed black pepper and cured, after which they may be stored in oil or pickled in vinegar. Their sharp taste becomes more piquant the more they age, and they also develop a crumbly texture
History of Maltese Cheeselets
The tradition of making ġbejniet goes back generations in Malta. It’s believed to have been influenced by Sicilian cheesemaking practices, reflecting Malta’s historical connections with Sicily. ġbejniet has long been a staple in the Maltese diet, with many families still making their own versions at home. Today, you can find ġbejniet in local markets, shops, and restaurants throughout Malta.
Maltese Dishes with Maltese Cheeselets
Maltese Cheeselets find their way into a variety of dishes, both traditional and contemporary. Some popular uses include:
- Ftira bil-Ġbejniet: A traditional Maltese bread topped with fresh tomatoes, olives, capers, onions, and, of course, ġbejniet.
- Salads: They are often used as a topping for salads, adding a tangy and salty note to the mix.
- Pastries: ġbejniet can be incorporated into savoury pastries, adding a rich and creamy element.
Where to Find Maltese Cheeselets for Sale?
You can find Maltese Cheeselets in many places across Malta. Look for them in local markets, traditional bakeries, cheese shops, and even supermarkets. You might also have the opportunity to purchase them directly from local farmers or producers, providing you with an authentic taste of Malta.
In conclusion, Maltese Cheeselets, or Ġbejniet, are more than just cheese; they are a reflection of Malta’s rich dairy tradition and a delicious addition to its culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on
In conclusion, Maltese Cheeselets, or Ġbejniet, are more than just cheese; they are a reflection of Malta’s rich dairy tradition and a delicious addition to its culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a dish, these bite-sized delights are sure to leave your taste buds craving more. So, when you visit Malta, don’t forget to savour the unique and savoury taste of Maltese Cheeselets.