Easter time in Malta is not complete without the traditional treat of Figolli. This sweet pastry, made with a delicious dough and filled with a sweet almond filling, has been a staple of Maltese cuisine for centuries.
Figolla (singular) has its roots in the Arabic word for almond, “luqum,” which was brought to Malta by the Arabs during their occupation in the 9th century. Over time, the Maltese people adapted the recipe and made it their own, creating the Figolla we know and love today.
Traditionally, Figolli are made and enjoyed during the Easter season as a sweet treat to celebrate the end of Lent. The pastries are often shaped into the form of a fish, which is a symbol of Christianity and the resurrection of Jesus.
The making of Figolla is a true labor of love, and is often passed down from generation to generation. It’s not just a recipe, it’s a tradition and a cultural experience. Families gather to make it together and share it with friends and loved ones. The process of making Figolla is quite intricate, it starts with the kneading of the dough, then rolling it out, cutting it into shape, filling it with the almond paste and then baking it to perfection.
Figolla also plays an important role in Maltese Easter celebrations, it is given as a gift to friends and family as a symbol of love and friendship. It is also a common sight at Maltese Easter fairs and markets, where locals and tourists alike can purchase and enjoy the sweet treat.
One of the best places to try Figolla is in the village of Hal Safi, where the locals are renowned for their traditional recipe and high-quality ingredients. Visitors can also try different variations of Figolla such as chocolate-covered figolla, figolla with orange zest and even figolla stuffed with a variety of fillings like hazelnut or pistachio.
If you’re ever in Malta during Easter time, be sure to try a Figolla and experience the sweet taste of Maltese tradition. It’s a unique and delicious way to learn about Maltese culture and history. Not only will you enjoy the taste, but you will also be part of a tradition that has been passed down for centuries.
FOR THE DOUGH Add butter to flour and use your hands to rub it in Mix in eggs, sugar, vanilla and lemon rind Roll out dough and knead it, adding flour as needed Cover and put aside FOR THE FILLING Mix all the ingredients into a paste. Back to the dough, roll out and cut dough using a a cookie cutter or else print out any image you want Cut 2 pieces of the same image Place almond mixture onto bottom dough layer. leave edge clean for room to close wet edge using finger dipped in water. place top layer of dough on top press edges together bake at 180C for 15-20 minutes or until slightly golden FOR THE ICING mix ingredients together separate icing into as many colors as you will be making and add color. using spoon place color on figolli pipe outline onto figolli place chocolate egg on topFigolli
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