Beyond the Pint: The Ultimate Guide to Farsons Beer and Maltese Food Pairings

Malta is a country of vibrant flavours, and nowhere is this more true than in its cuisine. While you might know Farsons for its iconic lagers, The Farsons Brewery Experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich culinary landscape in a new way. From savoury stews to crispy, beer-battered delights, the right beer pairing can transform a great meal into an unforgettable experience. 

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to enhance your visit to the islands, here is a guide to some of Malta’s most beloved dishes and the Farsons beers that make them sing.

Cisk Lager: The Versatile Classic

Cisk Lager is Malta’s most famous brew – a refreshing, golden lager that is a staple in every local pub and restaurant. Its crisp, clean taste and moderate carbonation make it an ideal partner for a wide variety of Mediterranean flavors.

• • Pairing: Pastizzi – These small, flaky pastries filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas are the quintessential Maltese snack. The light, bubbly finish of Cisk cuts through the richness of the pastry and cheese, while its subtle sweetness complements the savory pea filling. It’s a perfect match for a quick bite or a classic ftira sandwich. 

• • Pairing: Lampuki Pie – A seasonal specialty, lampuki (mahi-mahi) pie combines fresh fish, spinach, olives, and mint in a light pastry. The clean profile of a Cisk Lager won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the fish and herbs, making for a balanced and refreshing combination. 

Farsons Blue Label Ale: A Match for Hearty Flavors

Farsons Blue Label Ale is a smooth, dark brown ale with a distinct caramel malt character. Its smooth and creamy finish make it a perfect counterpoint to richer, more robust dishes. 

• • Pairing: Farsons Blue Label BBQ Wings – At The Farsons Brewery & Gastro Experience, the chefs serve chicken wings coated in a special Farsons Blue Label BBQ sauce. The malty backbone of the ale stands up to the smoky, tangy sauce, creating a complementary flavour profile that is both decadent and satisfying. 

• • Pairing: Rabbit Stew (Stuffat Tal-Fenek) Rabbit stew is often considered the national dish of Malta. Slow-cooked with wine, garlic, and a medley of root vegetables, this dish requires a beer that can handle its complexity. The caramel and chocolate notes of Blue Label Ale beautifully complement the deep, savory flavors of the stew, creating a comforting and traditional pairing. 

Farsons Double Red Strong Ale: The Bold Partner

Farsons Double Red Strong Ale offers a strong, fresh character, where pleasant hoppy bitterness is balanced by smooth malty sweetness, making it the perfect match for savoury and powerful flavors. 

• Pairing: Beef Sliders with Farsons Double Red Onion Jam – As part of the Gastro Experience, Farsons serves beef sliders with a savory onion jam made using Farsons Double Red. The beer’s roasted character enhances the richness of the beef, while the onion jam adds a touch of sweetness and depth that mirrors the beer’s flavor profile.

• Pairing: Braġjoli (Beef Olives) – Braġjoli are thin slices of beef that are rolled, filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, eggs, and herbs, and then slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce. The malty notes of the Double Red Ale provide a robust and satisfying contrast to the savory beef and the tang of the tomato sauce. 

The Ultimate Experience

The best way to discover great food pairings is to taste them firsthand. The Farsons Brewery & Gastro Experience offers a unique, sensory journey that takes you through the history of brewing in Malta, from grain to bottle. The tour culminates in a tasting of five different 100ml beers, each served with a bite-sized, beer-infused dish, providing a hands-on way to explore these incredible flavour combinations. It’s an immersive experience for beer lovers and foodies alike, and a must-do attraction for anyone looking for a unique and flavourful thing to do in Malta.