Maltese Sea-Salt, Sesame & Citrus Semifreddo Recipe

176

Among the many delights of Maltese culinary heritage, desserts stand out with their bold flavors and rustic charm.

Classics like imqaret (date-filled pastries) and kannoli (a Sicilian import with a Maltese twist) highlight local ingredients such as dates, almonds, citrus, and carob.

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a sun-drenched archipelago with a rich tapestry of cultures woven through millennia of history. From ancient Phoenician roots to Arab, Italian, and British influences, the island’s cuisine reflects a vibrant fusion of East and West, salt and spice, tradition and innovation.

But what if we could reimagine this heritage in a modern dessert—Ħelwa tal-Baħar (literally, “Sweet of the Sea”)—a Maltese Sea-Salt, Sesame & Citrus Semifreddo that celebrates Malta’s maritime spirit, sun-soaked climate, and enduring love for nuts and spices?

Why This Ħelwa tal-Baħar is So Special

This unique dessert is inspired by the traditional ħelwa tat-tork, a nutty, tahini-based sweet often enjoyed in Maltese homes, and the sensory experience of the Maltese coast: the sea breeze, the salt, the sun. It combines toasted sesame, honey, citrus zest, and a delicate touch of sea salt, with a silky, semi-frozen texture that’s perfect for a warm Mediterranean evening.

It’s vegan, naturally gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying, blending old-world flavors with a modern, refined twist.

Recipe: Maltese Sea-Salt, Sesame & Citrus Semifreddo

Ħelwa tal-Baħar is not just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Malta’s coastal soul and Mediterranean flavors. Creamy yet crunchy, sweet yet subtly salty, it’s a cooling tribute to the island’s warm hospitality and diverse culinary roots.

• Serves: 6
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus 4–5 hours freezing)
• Calories: ~280 kcal per serving (approximate)
• Recipe Cuisine: Maltese/Mediterranean
• Recipe Keywords: Maltese dessert, semifreddo, tahini dessert, Mediterranean sweets, nutty dessert, sea salt dessert, vegan option, summer treat, sesame citrus dessert

Ingredients

Base:

• 1 cup tahini (lightly roasted sesame paste)
• ½ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup chopped toasted pistachios
• ¼ cup chopped candied orange peel
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 orange
• Pinch of sea salt flakes (Maldon or Gozo sea salt)

Sweetener & Binder:

• ⅓ cup honey (or carob syrup for a vegan version)
• ¼ cup coconut cream (chilled)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping:

• Crushed sesame brittle or sesame snaps
• Drizzle of carob syrup or pomegranate molasses
• Fresh mint (optional)

Instructions

• Prepare the Base:
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk the tahini and honey until smooth and well combined.
  • Fold in the almond flour, coconut cream, citrus zests, spices, and vanilla.
  • Add a pinch of sea salt and gently mix in the pistachios and candied orange peel.
• Freeze & Set:
  • Spoon the mixture into a silicone loaf mold or individual ramekins.
  • Smooth the top and cover with cling film.
  • Freeze for 4–5 hours until firm but sliceable (semifreddo texture).
• Serve:
  • Remove from the freezer and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
  • Slice and plate with crushed sesame brittle, a drizzle of carob syrup, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
  • Garnish with mint leaves for color and freshness.

Enjoy this treat with a glass of chilled Limoncello tal-Malta or a robust Maltese coffee. Whether lounging seaside or reminiscing about past travels, this dessert will take you straight to the shores of the Mediterranean.

---

Enjoy your meal! Igawdu l-ikel tagħkom!

---

Find More Delicious Recipes:

• Arctic Berry & Rye Skyr Tart Recipe
• Icelandic Volcano Skyr Cake Recipe
• Scottish Cranachan Shortbread Parfaits Recipe
• Matcha Chia Mochi Parfait Recipe
• Golden Kiwi & Manuka Honey Pavlova Parfait Recipe