Before we went to live in England in 1954 and I was still a seven-year-old boy, from the age of three or four, I clearer remember the cries of the farmer pulling a donkey and cart piled with blackberries, around the streets.
We loved them and dear mum bought bowls full of them shining black and washed them thoroughly and we consumed them one-by-one with a teaspoon. Strawberries and Raspberries are also highly grown and are extremely popular, with strawberries taking pride of place (see further down).
Orange & Lemon Trees
The Central Mediterranean is an ideal location for the growth of trees and fruits plants because of its clement weather and the need for juicy fruits, particularly in the summer heat.
As a summer thirst quencher oranges are of course extremely popular, laced with chunks of ice ir mixed with other drinks, but lemons are most utilised.
This is because of the use of lemon juice in a great variety of food preparations over which squeezed lemon juice is highly popular for taste and freshness, particularly for meat and fish but especially for fish because they also provide a marine tastiness of a sea product.
The prickly pear is another highly popular summer fruit because of its taste and munching quality and particularly the pleasant feel of actually cutting out the pear from its prickly skin.
Figs also have a high priority listing because of their munch quality on the palate when cold and refreshing.
Olive Trees
For a reason I find it difficult to understand, olives are classed as a fruit rather than a food plant and in these Malta excels. Olives are grown everywhere and harvested in vast quantities.
Some are crushed to produce olive oil and the remaining elements are eaten with relish. Black and brown olives either whole or pitted can be used in practically every dish and are specially included.
Strawberry Festival
To top all these there is the annual Strawberry Festival which is organised by the Mgarr village local council with the participation of the local agricultural community, selling countless amounts of freshly picked strawberries.
Other products made from strawberries are sold like smoothies, jam, milkshakes, gateaux and cakes. Local folk grow strawberry plants in their gardens and farmers tend them in fields.
The Festival is organised by the Mgarr Local Council in Mgarr in April.
The annual Strawberry Festival is one of the most popular and delicious days on the Maltese calendar, bringing together local farmers, professional chefs, artists, and musicians. The perfect day out for friends, family, and foodies!
Wander through the beautiful Mġarr village and sample from a banquet of scrumptious strawberry themed snacks, desserts, jams, gourmet dishes and beverages – even strawberry wine!
Relax and be entertained by traditional music and folk dance or browse the artisan stalls and chat with local craftsmen and women showcasing their work.
Kids will be delighted too, with a dedicated team of animators, train rides, painting competitions and more!
