By the following day, on 16th August, the Malta Food Agency published a video announcing the haul of lampuki which had arrived at the Pixkerija in the early hours of the morning.

And the number was quite staggering, with some 3,800 kilos worth of the beloved fish arriving after just one day out at sea.“We extend our appreciation to our dedicated employees, fishermen, Pitkala, and fish sellers for their efficient and meticulous efforts in ensuring the delivery of fresh fish to our tables,” the agency said on Facebook.

“Embracing the essence of local cuisine, our commitment remains unwavering in providing the community with fresh and nourishing produce.”

Known as Dorado, Mahi Mahi and Dolphin Fish, this remarkable fish starts to migrate along the Mediterranean in the end of August until November when it reaches a nice hefty size ( 1- 2 Kg ) and is quite plentiful.

Lampuki season opens on the 15th August coinciding with the Santa Marija Festa.

It is caught in a traditional manner practiced since Roman times using rafts woven out of bamboo and palms known as ” Kannizati”.

The fish go to seek the shade of the raft and are surrounded by a net. Because of its abundance at a certain period this tasty fish sells at a very good value and is very sought after.

It is cooked in a number of ways, with the most popular being simply frying them dipped in flour or semolina but it can also be roasted, grilled, cooked ‘in bianco’, poached and, when it gets bigger towards the end of the season, baked in a Lampuki Pie. When it is fried it can be served simply with lemon or/and mayonnaise or with a tangy caper tomato sauce.

Have you tried lampuki yet this year?