Imqaret (Maltese Date-Filled Fried Pastries)

Imqaret are Malta’s favorite street snack: crisp, diamond-shaped pastries stuffed with spiced date paste and fried until golden. They are sold warm from festa stalls across the islands.

Ingredients

For the dough

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water, plus more as needed
• Pinch of salt

For the filling

• 1 1/2 cups (250g) pitted dates, chopped
• 1/4 tsp ground aniseed
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tbsp warm water

For frying

• Vegetable oil, for deep-frying

Instructions

1. Make the date paste
   Combine dates, aniseed, cinnamon, orange zest, and warm water in a saucepan. Warm gently, mashing until a smooth, spreadable paste forms. Let cool.
2. Make the dough
   Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in olive oil, then gradually add warm water until a firm, smooth dough forms. Knead briefly and rest 10 minutes.
3. Roll and fill
   Roll the dough into a thin rectangle. Spread the date paste over half, fold the dough over, and press to seal.
4. Cut into diamonds
   Slice the filled dough into diamond shapes using a knife or pastry cutter.
5. Fry until crisp
   Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the diamonds in batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden and crisp.
6. Drain and cool
   Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly before serving.

Imqaret are a beloved Maltese street snack, often sold warm from festa stalls alongside a cold drink.