Lavender syrup has long been made in Provence, France, where fields of fragrant lavender bloom every summer. This homemade version uses freshly harvested culinary lavender blossoms to create a delicate floral syrup that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, lemonade, sparkling water, cocktails, and desserts. The flavor is subtle and elegant—never overpowering—when steeped for the proper amount of time.

   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.