What are pastizzi?
Pastizzi are one of Malta's most recognisable traditional pastries and are widely enjoyed in Gozo as well as on the main island. They are small, diamond-shaped pastries made from thin layers of flaky pastry and traditionally filled with either ricotta or a seasoned mixture of mashed peas.
The two classic varieties are known as pastizzi tal-irkotta, filled with ricotta, and pastizzi tal-piżelli, filled with a savoury pea mixture. Their crisp pastry and warm filling make them a popular inexpensive snack at almost any time of day.
Pastizzi are not a food exclusive to Gozo, but they are an important part of the traditional food you will encounter while travelling around the island. They are particularly associated with small bakeries, snack shops and village establishments.
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The two traditional fillings
The most familiar pastizzi are made with one of two classic fillings. The first is ricotta, producing the mild and creamy pastizzi tal-irkotta. The second uses a seasoned mashed-pea filling and is known as pastizzi tal-piżelli.
Both varieties are enclosed in the characteristic layered pastry. The pastry is folded and shaped before baking, giving the finished pastizz its distinctive diamond-like appearance and crisp, flaky exterior.
Traditional varieties
- Pastizzi tal-irkotta — ricotta filling
- Pastizzi tal-piżelli — seasoned pea filling
- Flaky pastry — thin layered pastry
- Served warm — best enjoyed freshly baked
How pastizzi are made
Pastizzi begin with a pastry made from very thin layers of dough and fat. The dough is worked and stretched so that numerous delicate layers develop through the pastry.
The prepared pastry is shaped around the filling and folded into the familiar small diamond form. It is then baked at a high temperature until the outside becomes crisp and golden.
The contrast between the flaky pastry and the warm savoury filling is one of the main reasons pastizzi have remained such a popular part of Maltese food culture.
A simple Maltese food tradition
Pastizzi are closely associated with everyday life rather than formal dining. They are commonly eaten as a quick breakfast, snack or light meal and are particularly popular with coffee or tea.
In Gozo, they are an easy food to discover while exploring villages and towns, making them a useful introduction to traditional Maltese bakery culture.
Pastizzi in Gozo
You will find pastizzi in bakeries, snack shops, cafés and other establishments serving traditional Maltese food around Gozo. They are especially convenient when you want something quick while sightseeing.
A freshly baked pastizz is usually inexpensive and filling, making it one of the easiest traditional foods for visitors to try without planning a full meal.
Although the classic fillings remain the most traditional, individual bakeries may offer additional fillings or variations. For a first taste, the ricotta and pea versions are the obvious choices.
Frequently asked questions
What are pastizzi?
Pastizzi are small, flaky Maltese pastries traditionally filled with ricotta or a seasoned mashed-pea mixture. They are widely eaten in Gozo as well as throughout Malta.
What is the difference between the two main pastizzi?
Pastizzi tal-irkotta contain a ricotta filling, while pastizzi tal-piżelli contain a savoury seasoned pea filling.
Are pastizzi a traditional food of Gozo?
Pastizzi are a traditional Maltese food rather than a food unique to Gozo. They are nevertheless widely eaten and readily available throughout Gozo.
Are pastizzi eaten hot or cold?
They are traditionally enjoyed warm and are particularly good when freshly baked, when the pastry is crisp and the filling is warm.
What are pastizzi usually eaten with?
Pastizzi are often eaten on their own as a snack and are commonly accompanied by coffee, tea or another drink.
Where can I try pastizzi in Gozo?
Look for local bakeries, snack shops, cafés and village food establishments. Pastizzi are one of the easiest traditional foods to find while travelling around Gozo.
Explore Gozo food
Continue exploring traditional foods and local flavours around the island.