From Sea to Plate, it’s Time for Lampuki!
In case you haven’t heard, It’s officially lampuki season in Malta!
If you’re visiting in the month of September, you’ve arrived just in peak time for one of the island’s most beloved traditions. The lampuka, known elsewhere as mahi-mahi or dorado, has been a staple of Maltese cuisine for generations, and its annual arrival is eagerly anticipated by locals and tourists alike.
The season officially kicks off on August 15th, but the excitement begins earlier as Malta’s fishermen, mostly from the picturesque villages of Marsaxlokk and Mġarr, prepare for the catch. This is no ordinary fishing trip, it’s a centuries-old tradition steeped in culture. In true Maltese fashion, it all begins with a blessing. Picture the scene, a waterfront Mass, followed by the local priest hopping onto a small boat to bless the colourful luzzu (traditional fishing boats), and then it’s off to sea!
Marsaxlokk fishing village
What makes lampuki fishing unique is the use of kannizzati, special Fish Aggregating Devices that have barely changed over time. These devices are made with palm fronds attached to floats and lure in fish by providing shade in the open sea. Once the lampuki gather under the fronds, the fishermen swoop in with their nets, and voilà, dinner is served!
If you’re in Malta during this time, you simply have to try fresh lampuki. It’s such a local favourite that nearly all the catch stays on the island, making its way onto restaurant menus everywhere. The most traditional way to enjoy it is pan-fried with a zingy caper and tomato sauce, a simple yet mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
But the real showstopper? Lampuki pie. This comforting dish is like a Maltese hug in pastry form. The golden, flaky crust is packed with lampuki, vegetables, and sometimes a few surprise ingredients like raisins or spinach, depending on the recipe. Every Maltese family has their own twist on the pie, and you’re likely to hear locals debating whose version is the best!
For something different, you might even find lampuki in canapés, or baked and grilled in various creative ways. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try it in aljotta, a hearty Maltese fish soup that’s the perfect taste of late summer.
The best spot to sample lampuki? Head down to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, where the restaurants along the waterfront serve up the freshest catch straight from the sea. It’s as local and authentic as it gets. One bite, and we promise you’ll be hooked!
