These Belarusian fried pirozhki are a true family treasure. In our home, Mom always made a huge batch, because once they hit the table, it was almost impossible to stop eating them. Dad used to say they were so delicious that you’d reach for “just one more” again and again. They weren’t an everyday meal — making them takes time, patience, and care — but Mom made them often enough for the smell of frying dough and savory meat to become one of the most comforting memories of our kitchen.

Italian Wedding Soup traces its origins to Italy, where it was called "Minestra Maritata," meaning "married soup." The name refers to the blending of ingredients like meat and leafy greens, a tradition dating back to ancient Roman times when similar soups were made with whatever was on hand.

Potatoes, carrots and eggs can be cooked ahead of time.

You can use any meat for these patties. I prefer a mixture of beef, pork and veal in a 1:1:1 ratio.

Baklava gets better with time as the flavors meld together, making it even more irresistible the next day!