837: The Universal Language of Bread with Tony Shalhoub and Maureen Abood
The Splendid Table: Conversations & Recipes For Curious Cooks & EatersSummary
Tony Shalhoub, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in "Monk" and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," explores the universal appeal of bread in his new CNN show "Breaking Bread." Growing up in a Lebanese-American family in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Shalhoub reflects on how food, particularly bread, serves as a cultural connector across diverse communities. He emphasizes that bread is more than just a staple; it represents sustenance and a return to simpler times amid modern stresses. Shalhoub's show aims to highlight the stories behind various breads and their significance in different cultures.
During the podcast, Shalhoub shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing, where traditional Lebanese dishes coexisted with American fare, fostering a sense of community among friends and neighbors. He discusses the pandemic's impact on bread-making, noting how many turned to baking as a way to reconnect with family and find comfort. The conversation also touches on his travels to places like São Paulo, Brazil, where he discovered the rich tapestry of immigrant cultures and their culinary contributions, further illustrating the global connection through bread.
Later in the episode, cookbook author Maureen Abood joins the discussion to talk about her new book "Lebanese Baking." Abood highlights the significance of mana'ish, a beloved Lebanese flatbread, and shares insights into its preparation and variations. She emphasizes the cultural importance of baking in Lebanese cuisine and the influence of French culinary traditions on Lebanese baking practices. The episode concludes with a celebration of bread as a symbol of connection, heritage, and the joy of sharing meals with others.
Show Notes
This week, we’re breaking bread in every sense of the phrase. First, beloved actor Tony Shalhoub joins us to talk about his new CNN series, Breaking Bread, where he travels the world to explore the meaning of bread and how it connects us across cultures and tables. Growing up in a large Lebanese American family in Wisconsin, Tony shares memories of food as a bridge between worlds, from kibbeh and hummus to bratwurst and grilled cheese. Then, we meet Maureen Abood, author of Lebanese Baking, who brings us into the heart of the Lebanese kitchen with recipes and stories that honor tradition and community. She leaves us with her recipe for Za’atar Manakeesh, a beloved flatbread that captures the heart of Lebanese baking: simple, fragrant, and made to share.
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Broadcast dates for this episode:
October 31, 2025 (originally aired) October 30, 2026 (rebroadcast)
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