Ainsley’s Taste of Malta: Valetta – Series Premiere (ITV1 Monday 5 February 2024)

In the series premiere of “Ainsley’s Taste of Malta,” beloved TV personality Ainsley Harriott takes viewers on a culinary journey to the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta. Known for its unique cultural blend of Sicilian, British, Spanish, and French influences, Malta offers a diverse and vibrant gastronomic landscape that Ainsley is eager to explore.

The episode kicks off in Valetta, the stunning capital city of Malta. Here, Ainsley joins historian Liam for an insightful tour of the harbor, delving into the fascinating history behind Malta’s multicultural makeup and how it has shaped the local cuisine. As they navigate through centuries-old traditions and influences from various cultures, Ainsley gains valuable insights into why Malta has become such a melting pot for culinary delights.

Following this enlightening history lesson, Ainsley takes to the streets to uncover Valetta’s hidden culinary gems. From exploring the city’s rich café culture to indulging in delectable street food with Arabic influences, he immerses himself in the flavors that define Maltese cuisine.

Amidst his exploration of Valetta’s sights and sounds, Ainsley even tries his hand at bell ringing at a local church—an unexpected but delightful encounter that adds a touch of whimsy to his adventure. Furthermore, he pays a visit to chef Jonathan at one of Valetta’s popular dining establishments to discover a modern twist on a traditional Maltese dish—a testament to the evolution and innovation within Maltese cooking.

Not content with just scratching the surface, Ainsley also meets with a local butcher to delve into one particular aspect of Maltese gastronomy: their renowned sausage. This encounter provides him with further insight into authentic ingredients and techniques used in traditional Maltese recipes.

Throughout his journey across Valetta’s streets and beyond, Ainsley manages to weave together his experiences by creating dishes inspired by the flavors, ingredients, and cultural influences he encounters along the way. This unique approach promises to deliver a culinary experience that captures the essence of Maltese cuisine while showcasing Ainsley’s creativity in the kitchen.

Join Ainsley Harriott on Monday 5 February 2024 at 2:00pm for the premiere of “Ainsley’s Taste of Malta” on ITV1.

Featured image credit: ITV1