Ftira għall-Bajd
Maltese Bread with Eggs
A rustic Maltese bread, often sourdough, filled with a simple yet delicious combination of eggs, tomatoes, and sometimes anchovies or cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 medium Maltese ftira bread(split horizontally)
- 4 large Eggs
- 2 medium Ripe tomatoes(chopped)
- 1 clove Garlic(minced)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 2-4 optional Anchovy fillets(chopped)
- 1 tbsp Capers(optional)
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- few leaves optional Fresh basil(for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly toast the cut sides of the ftira bread in the oven or a toaster.
- 2
In a bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped anchovies (if using), capers (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Let the tomato mixture marinate for a few minutes to meld flavors. - 3
Spread the tomato mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the toasted ftira bread.
💡 Tip: Ensure good coverage of the tomato mixture. - 4
Make two wells in the tomato mixture on each ftira. Crack one egg into each well.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to break the yolks. - 5
Place the ftira with the eggs back into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your liking.
💡 Tip: Baking time can vary depending on how you like your eggs cooked. - 6
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.
💡 Tip: Fresh basil adds a lovely aroma and freshness.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a good quality Maltese ftira bread for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓Adjust the amount of garlic and anchovies to your preference.
- ✓If you don't have ftira, a crusty sourdough or ciabatta can be substituted.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add crumbled Gozitan cheese (ġbejna) before baking.
- Include some sautéed onions or bell peppers with the tomato mixture.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.