Kawlata

This hearty Maltese soup is traditionally prepared during winter months. Kawlata is made with either smoked pork shank or bacon, and a variety of vegetables such as broad beans, pumpkin or chayote squash, potatoes, kohlrabi, celery, carrots, cauliflower, and cabbage. Modern recipe variations also include macaroni pasta. This chunky soup is flavored with fennel seeds, and it is typically served as a one-course meal, often topped with a generous amount of grated cheese.