National Dish Malta: Platt Malti (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Platt Malti, a warm-hearted plate of slow-braised meat and vegetables that sums up everything good about cooking on the Maltese islands. Tender beef or lamb simmers gently in a garlicky tomato sauce with sweet carrots, paprika and oregano until the whole kitchen smells of the Mediterranean. It is generous enough for a celebration, yet simple enough for a relaxed weekend supper — and it tastes even better the day after.
About Platt Malti
Platt Malti is a traditional dish from Malta that captures the island’s culture and cooking beautifully. It is known for its tender texture and for the way fresh produce and aromatic spices come together on the plate. It is especially popular at festive occasions, but it also makes an excellent choice for an unhurried weekend dinner. Let the deliciously varied flavours of this dish win you over — it is comfort food with a distinctly Mediterranean accent.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g beef or lamb
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 200 ml tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Olive oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Platt Malti you will want fresh ingredients, ideally sourced locally. Visit a market or a good butcher to buy the best meat you can find. Make sure the meat is of high quality, as this makes a considerable difference to the flavour of the finished dish. Fresh vegetables matter just as much — they ensure your meal is not only tasty but wholesome too, in the same spirit as a rustic Minestra.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking Platt Malti, prepare all the ingredients carefully. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces while the vegetables are washed thoroughly and sliced. It is important that the onion and garlic are finely chopped so they release the maximum amount of aroma. Take your time cutting everything neatly — it makes the cooking itself far easier and more relaxed.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large frying pan.
- Add the onion and garlic and fry gently until golden brown.
- Add the diced meat to the pan and sear it well on all sides.
- Stir in the carrots and the tomato sauce and mix everything together thoroughly.
- Season with paprika, oregano, salt and pepper, then leave to simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Platt Malti is naturally a dish that can be prepared without any gluten-containing ingredients. Simply check that the tomato sauce and the spices you use are certified gluten-free. For a lactose-free version, avoid any dairy products and adjust the cooking method accordingly. This dish offers plenty of scope for gluten- and lactose-free alternatives, which makes it suitable for a wide range of diets.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan or vegetarian version of Platt Malti, simply swap the meat for tofu or jackfruit. Both absorb the flavours of the spices and the sauce exceptionally well. You can also add pulses such as chickpeas or lentils as a protein source, much as the islanders do in the classic bean dip Bigilla. Adjust the cooking time as needed so that every ingredient is perfectly done.
More tips and tricks
To make Platt Malti even more fragrant, add fresh herbs such as basil or parsley towards the end. They give the dish a brighter flavour and a welcome splash of colour. Experiment with different vegetables — peppers or courgettes, for example — to add more texture and taste. Feel free to cook the dish a day in advance, as the flavours deepen and intensify while it rests.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The best thing about this recipe is how easily it adapts to personal preference. If certain spices are not to your liking, simply replace them with your own favourites. You have the same freedom with the meat: chicken works well, and so does fish for a lighter, more coastal result. Let your creativity run free and shape Platt Malti exactly the way you like it.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are straightforward alternatives. Instead of beef or lamb you can use chicken or pork, and rabbit gives it a character close to the celebrated Fenkata. For the tomato sauce, purée fresh tomatoes or reach for a jar of passata. Experiment with other vegetable and spice combinations to find the perfect balance for your own Platt Malti.
Drink pairing ideas
A whole range of drinks complements Platt Malti nicely. A light, dry white wine from Malta goes wonderfully with this dish and lifts its aromas beautifully. If you prefer something alcohol-free, a refreshing lemon and mint tea is an excellent choice. Either way, the right glass turns dinner into a thoroughly satisfying occasion.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays a big part in the overall Platt Malti experience. Serve the dish on a large, attractive plate and garnish it with fresh herbs or edible flowers. Pay attention to combining colours and textures appealingly, so that your guests are drawn in before the first bite. A generous platter alongside crusty bread such as Hobz Biz-Zejt heightens the anticipation still further.
A bit of history
Platt Malti has its roots in the rich culinary heritage of Malta, which has been shaped by many different cultures. The combination of Mediterranean ingredients and traditional spices reflects the long journey of Maltese cuisine. Historically, Malta was an important trading hub that encouraged the exchange of ingredients and cooking techniques. Those influences are still clearly visible in many Maltese dishes today, and above all in Platt Malti.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Platt Malti
In short, Platt Malti is not only a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to experience Maltese culture. With its rich history and its varied combinations of flavour, it suits any number of occasions. Whether you make it for a celebration or a simple family meal, this dish never fails to impress. Let the aromas and traditions of this Maltese classic work their magic on you.
