Aljotta Maltija (Marsaxlokk Harbor Garlic, Tomato, Marjoram & Lemon Fish Soup) – Authentic Malta Recipe
From the colorful luzzu fishing boats of Marsaxlokk: a fragrant garlic, tomato, and marjoram fish soup with rice.
- Country of Origin
- 🇲🇹 Malta (Southern Europe, Europe)
- Dietary Profile
- pescatarian
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 25 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Flaky Mediterranean white fish fillets and shrimp, Ripe plum tomatoes, Cooked rice, Heaps of fresh marjoram and mint, 6 cloves garlic
Ingredients for Aljotta Maltija (Marsaxlokk Harbor Garlic, Tomato, Marjoram & Lemon Fish Soup) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) flaky Mediterranean white fish fillets and shrimp, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups ripe plum tomatoes, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with heaps of fresh marjoram and mint
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Malta seasoning (6 cloves garlic, lemon juice, olive oil)
- 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and heaps of fresh marjoram and mint for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 6 cloves garlic, lemon juice, olive oil and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Malta's kitchen.
- Add flaky Mediterranean white fish fillets and shrimp and ripe plum tomatoes, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
- Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
- Fold in cooked rice, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.