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National Baklava Day —
November 17, 2025

Celebrate baklava: layers of buttery phyllo, chopped nuts, warm spices, and a sweet syrup — a classic pastry across the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East.

Quick background
- Originating from the Ottoman/Turkic regions with earlier Levantine and Byzantine influences, baklava is made of very thin phyllo dough layered with nuts (walnut, pistachio, or almond), butter, spices (cinnamon, clove, cardamom), then baked and soaked in a sugar‑ or honey‑based syrup flavored with lemon, rosewater, or orange blossom.

Classic baklava (9x13" pan, ~12–16 servings)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) phyllo sheets (thawed if frozen), covered with a damp towel while working
- 2 cups (200 g) finely chopped nuts (pistachios, walnuts, or a mix)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon, pinch ground cardamom (optional)
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, melted
Syrup
- 1 cup (200 g) sugar, 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, 1/2 cup (170 g) honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp vanilla or 1 tsp orange blossom/rosewater (optional)

Method
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9x13" pan.
2. Mix chopped nuts with cinnamon and cardamom.
3. Layering: place one phyllo sheet in pan, brush lightly with melted butter; repeat 6–8 sheets (butter each). Sprinkle a thin, even layer of nuts (about 1/3–1/2 cup). Repeat: 4–6 phyllo sheets (buttered) then nuts — finish with 6–8 buttered phyllo sheets on top.
4. Using a sharp knife, score the assembled baklava into diamonds or squares down to the bottom of the pan.
5. Pour remaining butter evenly over the top (work it into cuts). Bake 45–60 minutes until golden and crisp.
6. Meanwhile, make syrup: simmer sugar and water until sugar dissolves, add honey and lemon juice, simmer 5–10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla or floral water; cool slightly.
7. When baklava is out of oven, immediately pour cooled syrup evenly over hot baklava. Let cool completely (several hours) so syrup is absorbed and layers set.

Enjoy National Baklava Day by baking a tray, experimenting with nut and syrup flavors, and sharing the rich, honeyed slices. #AtlantaCatering #CulinaryCollectiveATL #Alpharetta #PrivateChefAtlanta #bestinatlanta...

Food Fact Friday: Did you know that fresh herbs not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your dishes? Next time you’re prepping for a dinner party, reach for basil, parsley, or mint to elevate both taste and wellness!...

November 16 — National Fast Food Day

Celebrate fast food’s cultural impact: quick, convenient eats from drive‑thrus and counter service that shaped modern dining and pop culture.

Quick background
- Fast food as we know it grew in the 20th century with standardized menus, assembly‑line kitchens, and national chains. It’s known for speed, affordability, and consistency — and for driving food trends (burgers, fries, fried chicken, breakfast sandwiches, milkshakes).

At‑home fast‑food ideas
- Smash burger: thin patties, hot griddle, buttered bun, American cheese, pickles, onions, special sauce.
- Crispy oven fries: toss thin potato sticks in oil, cornstarch, salt, bake at 425°F (220°C) until crisp; finish with flaky salt.
- Crispy chicken sandwich: brine or buttermilk soak, dredge in seasoned flour, shallow‑fry or air‑fry; serve on toasted bun with pickles and mayo.
- Fast breakfast sandwich: scrambled egg, cheese, and sausage or bacon on an English muffin or biscuit.

Tips & tweaks
- For better texture and flavor, use high heat for crust (griddle or cast‑iron) and rest meats briefly.
- Make components ahead (pickles, sauces, toasted buns) to speed assembly.
- Healthier swaps: bake or air‑fry instead of deep‑fry, whole‑grain buns, leaner proteins, double up on veggies.
- Safety: follow proper temps (ground beef 160°F/71°C; poultry 165°F/74°C).

Cultural & nutritional notes
- Fast food is convenient and affordable but often high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat. Balance by choosing smaller portions, adding salads/veggies, or sharing.
- Many chains now offer plant‑based, grilled, or lighter options — check nutrition info if tracking intake.

Enjoy National Fast Food Day by indulging a favorite guilty pleasure, sampling something new, or mastering a classic at home. #CulinaryCollectiveATL #Alpharetta #PrivateChefAtlanta #bestinatlanta #ChefRob #AtlantaCatering #JohnsCreek...