Mediterranean > Maltese > Maltese Appetizers

Ħobż tal-Ġbejna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups of fresh ġbejniet (sheep’s cheeselets)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of fresh mint, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of capers
- 2 tablespoons of black olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of white wine
- 2 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium-sized bowl
- Baking dish
- Frying pan

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine ġbejniet, olive oil, parsley, mint, capers, olives, tomato paste, white wine, breadcrumbs, salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Grease a baking dish and spread the ġbejniet mixture evenly.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes.
5. Heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the ġbejniet mixture and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve warm.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 8 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.
- Fresh parsley and mint can be substituted with dried herbs.
- Caper can be substituted with pickles.
- Black olives can be substituted with green olives.

Variations:
- Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be served with a side of crusty bread.
- The ġbejniet mixture can be stuffed into bell peppers before baking.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to mix the ġbejniet mixture well before baking.
- For a crunchier texture, add more breadcrumbs.

Storage Instructions:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be reheated in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be served on a bed of lettuce or arugula.

Garnishes:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be garnished with freshly chopped parsley or mint.

Pairings:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna pairs well with a glass of white wine.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be served with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the ġbejniet mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- If the ġbejniet mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use fresh ġbejniet for best results.
- Refrigerate any leftovers immediately.

Food History:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna is a traditional Maltese dish that dates back to the 18th century. It is a popular dish that is served during special occasions.

Flavor Profiles:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna has a savory and salty flavor with a hint of sweetness from the tomato paste.

Serving Suggestions:
Ħobż tal-Ġbejna can be served as an appetizer or as a main course.

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Region: Maltese

Taste: Tangy, Salty, Savory, Cheesy, Nutty