Ossetian pies are traditional round stuffed breads from the Caucasus Mountains, especially associated with Ossetian cuisine. The dough is soft and airy, while the filling is generous and flavorful. Authentic Ossetian pies are traditionally thin, with almost equal proportions of dough and filling.

Schi is a centuries-old Russian soup, beloved for its simple ingredients and flavor that deepens over time. Traditionally enjoyed over several days, it gets tastier as the flavors meld. With Hungarian paprika, this version adds a modern twist to a classic comfort food.

In Belarus, layered salads with mushrooms are often called “пуховые салаты” — “fluffy salads” — because each layer is gently pressed to stay airy, not dense, giving the dish its signature soft, cloud‑like texture.

In classic French cooking, dishes with creamy sauces are often associated with the term “à la crème.” Spinach with cream (épinards à la crème) has been served since at least the 18th century, and pairing it with fish like salmon became popular as a way to balance richness with freshness.

Croissants, though famously French, actually trace their roots to Vienna, Austria! Their ancestor is the kipferl, a crescent-shaped pastry that dates back to at least the 13th century. Legend says Viennese bakers created it to celebrate the defeat of the Ottoman Turks — the crescent shape imitating the symbol on the Ottoman flag.