Classic Hobż biż-Żejt Open-Faced Sandwich

Classic Hobż biż-Żejt Open-Faced Sandwich

Prep: 10 min • Cook: 0 min. A traditional Maltese open-faced sandwich, Hobż biż-Żejt, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or snack. This iconic street food starts with a rustic Maltese bread, which is then generously rubbed with the sweet pulp of ripe tomatoes, drizzled with fragrant extra virgin olive oil, and adorned with briny capers and savory anchovies, creating a delightful explosion of Mediterranean flavors.

Preparation time
10 min
Cooking time
Under a minute
Total time
10 min
Servings
2

Instructions

Assembly

  1. 1Take each slice of Maltese bread and firmly rub the cut side of a halved ripe tomato all over the surface, ensuring the bread soaks up the tomato juices and pulp.
  2. 2Generously drizzle each tomato-rubbed bread slice with extra virgin olive oil.
  3. 3Evenly scatter the rinsed and drained capers over both slices of bread.
  4. 4If using, artfully arrange the anchovy fillets on top of the capers.
  5. 5Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. 6Serve immediately as an open-faced sandwich.

Nutrition Information

Calories
351 kcal
Protein
8 g
Fat
22 g
Carbs
30 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories351 kcal
Protein8 g
Fat22 g
Carbs30 g

Tips

  • Use very ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and moisture when rubbing the bread.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh glass of local Maltese wine or a cold Cisk beer.

By Chef Michael Ilin