National Dish Malta: Imqaret (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Imqaret, the sweet, diamond-shaped date pastries sold from kiosks and street carts all over Malta. A thin, crisp pastry case gives way to a dark, sticky filling of dates, cinnamon and citrus — warm, fragrant and utterly moreish. They turn up at village feasts, on ferry quays and at family celebrations alike, and they are far easier to make at home than their reputation suggests.
About Imqaret
Imqaret are traditional Maltese pastries, distinctive in both flavour and preparation. These little parcels are known for their deep-fried texture and their tempting filling of dates, cinnamon and citrus fruit. They are especially popular during festivals and celebrations, when the smell of hot oil and warm spice drifts through the streets. Sweet and aromatic, every bite carries a piece of Maltese culture with it.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g flour
- 125 ml water
- 200 g dates, stoned and chopped
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Oil, for deep-frying
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for imqaret are available in most supermarkets and in specialist international food shops. Dates are usually found in the confectionery aisle or among the dried fruits. Choose good-quality dates for the best flavour, since they carry the whole filling. Pick out fresh lemons for the juice too, as this will sharpen and lift the aromas of your pastries — the same trick that brightens a bowl of Aljotta.
Preparing the dish
Before you begin making imqaret, prepare the filling first. The dates need to be stoned and cut into small pieces. Then mix the chopped dates with the cinnamon and lemon juice in a bowl. This fragrant mixture is later spooned into the pastry and is what makes imqaret such a memorable treat.
Step-by-step instructions
- Combine the flour and water in a large bowl to make a smooth dough.
- Roll the dough out thinly on a floured work surface.
- Cut small rounds out of the dough with a knife.
- Place a spoonful of the date filling in the centre of each round.
- Fold the edges of the dough over and press firmly to seal the filling inside.
- Heat plenty of oil in a deep pan and fry the pastries until golden brown.
- Drain the imqaret on kitchen paper and serve warm.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of imqaret, use a blend of gluten-free flours in place of wheat flour. These are widely stocked these days and make an excellent base. To keep the recipe lactose-free, simply check that all the ingredients you use are free of dairy — which, with this recipe, they naturally are. Nothing then stands between anyone with a food intolerance and this Maltese delicacy.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Imqaret are naturally vegan, which makes them an ideal choice for plant-based diets. Just take care to use vegetable oil for frying so the recipe stays entirely plant-based. These sweet pastries are a delicious addition to any vegan dessert table and travel well as a snack for the road. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family.
More tips and tricks
When frying imqaret, getting the oil temperature right is essential. If the oil is too hot, the pastries will burn on the outside while staying raw within. A good trick is to drop a small piece of dough into the oil to test whether it is ready. Use a deep-sided pan to stop the oil bubbling over. Imqaret should always be served fresh, so you can enjoy the best flavour and that perfectly crisp texture.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The imqaret recipe adapts beautifully. Depending on your taste, you might add further spices such as cloves or nutmeg to vary the filling. If you prefer things less sweet, reduce the sugar or work other dried fruits into the mixture. Chopped nuts are another excellent addition, bringing extra texture and flavour — a touch that also works well in Kwarezimal. Do give it a try.
Ingredient substitutions
If you have no dates to hand, figs or raisins make a fine filling instead. These dried fruits bring the same natural sweetness and aromatic depth. Alternatively, you can enrich the filling with a touch of honey or agave syrup, as in the honey-sweetened Imqaret Bil Honey. Be creative and experiment with different ingredients until you have created your perfect imqaret.
Drink pairing ideas
Sweet imqaret go wonderfully with a cup of Maltese tea or coffee. A refreshing lemonade or a fragrant herbal tea makes an equally good companion. Sweet wines and dessert wines also pair superbly with these pastries, particularly at festive occasions. Choose a drink that underlines the sweetness of the imqaret rather than competing with it.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of imqaret can be every bit as appealing as their flavour. Serve the pastries on an elegant platter and dust them with a little icing sugar for a festive look. Fresh fruit or a simple green bed of mint leaves rounds out the plate nicely. A drizzle of honey or a fruity sauce served as a dip will enrich the experience still further.
A bit of history
The roots of imqaret reach far back into Maltese gastronomy. Originally invented as a simple street food for everyday life on the islands, they have held on to their popularity across the centuries. They are traditionally served at celebrations and special occasions, and every region of Malta has its own version and method. These sweet pastries are not only a pleasure to eat but also a symbol of Maltese cuisine and tradition.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Imqaret
In short, imqaret are a generous and versatile treat that brings the flavours of Malta together in delicious fashion. Their crisp, golden shell and sweet, aromatic filling make them perfect for any occasion. Whether as a snack, a dessert or part of a celebration, imqaret are a must in the Maltese kitchen. Try the recipe for yourself and enjoy a taste of Malta.
