Meet Malta's Mighty Little Sausage: Iz-Zalzett Tal-Malti!

If you think all sausages are the same, Malta is ready to prove you wrong. The traditional żalzett tal-Malti (Maltese sausage) packs centuries of history and plenty of bold flavour into every bite.

Unlike many European sausages, the Maltese version is famous for its generous seasoning. Cracked black pepper, coriander seeds, garlic, sea salt and fresh parsley give it a distinctive taste. The coriander, in particular, adds a subtle citrusy note that makes it instantly recognisable.

Traditionally made from pork, Maltese sausages were often prepared during the cooler months and hung outdoors to air-dry in Malta's mild winter climate. They can be enjoyed fresh and cooked or cured and sliced thin, making them just as suitable for a hearty meal as for a snack.

Every butcher has their own closely guarded recipe, so no two sausages taste exactly alike. Ask a local where to find the best one, and you'll likely start a friendly debate!

The sausage is incredibly versatile. It's delicious grilled over charcoal, pan-fried for breakfast, crumbled into rich pasta sauces, or tucked inside warm ftira, Malta's traditional bread, alongside tomatoes, olives or local cheese.

Its roots stretch back centuries, with influences from Sicily and southern Italy, but over time Malta created a flavour all its own. Today, the Maltese sausage remains a staple of local kitchens and village feasts, loved by both residents and visitors.

In recent years, this iconic delicacy has gained its own special day of recognition. Every 30th of July, the Maltese sausage is remembered and celebrated, honouring one of the island's most cherished culinary traditions and ensuring its unique flavour and heritage continue to be enjoyed by future generations.

The celebrations continue with Maltese Sausage Day, taking place at the Public Abattoir in Marsa on Friday, 31st July, from 8pm onwards. Visitors can look forward to an evening dedicated to this beloved local delicacy, featuring everything from traditional favourites to inventive new creations, all served in a lively atmosphere filled with good food, music and community spirit. Whether you're a lifelong fan or trying Maltese sausage for the first time, it's the perfect opportunity to celebrate one of Malta's most iconic flavours.

Whether you enjoy it sizzling fresh off the grill or perfectly cured on a charcuterie board, one thing is certain: Malta's famous sausage may be small, but it's full of character.

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