Hobz Biz-Zejt (Maltese Bread with Tomato, Olive Oil and Capers)

Hobz Biz-Zejt is the Maltese answer to bruschetta — crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomato and olive oil, then piled with a simple tuna and caper filling. It’s the sandwich Maltese families grow up eating on beach days and busy mornings alike.

Ingredients

• 4 thick slices crusty Maltese or country bread
• 2 ripe tomatoes, halved, plus 1/2 cup chopped tomato
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in olive oil, drained
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint or parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Rub the bread
   Rub each slice of bread generously with the cut side of a halved tomato until the crust turns pink and juicy, then drizzle with olive oil.
2. Make the filling
   In a bowl, combine chopped tomato, tuna, capers, olives, and mint. Season with salt and pepper and mix gently to combine.
3. Assemble
   Pile the tuna mixture onto the oiled bread slices, pressing down lightly so the topping holds.
4. Serve right away
   Enjoy immediately while the bread is still crisp at the edges and soft where it has soaked up the tomato and oil.

A splash of red wine vinegar over the top is a common Maltese touch if you like extra tang.