Stanley Tucci Discusses Family Holiday Traditions and Culinary Preferences

Renowned actor Stanley Tucci recently shared insights into his family holiday traditions and culinary preferences in an exclusive interview with E! News. During the conversation, Tucci revealed that the traditional Italian dish, timpano, which holds sentimental value from his childhood, is unlikely to be featured on his holiday dinner table this year due to its unpopularity among his family members.

Tucci explained that the timpano—a layered pasta dish filled with vegetables, meat, cheese, and eggs, all encased in dough—has been a cherished part of his family’s holiday meals. However, it lacks support from his wife, Felicity Blunt, the sister of actress Emily Blunt. “Unless my mother and father come, there won’t be [any timpano],” Tucci stated. “My wife hates it. No one likes it, except me and my son Nicolo. Huge amount of effort for just two people.”

The actor, famous for his role in the film “Big Night” where timpano was a centerpiece, expressed disappointment that the dish might not make it to this year’s Christmas menu. Nonetheless, he ensured that the feast would include other delicious items, expressing a desire to prepare a lasagna Bolognese instead.

Currently residing in England, Tucci noted that the traditional holiday meal often includes a roast. Yet, his enthusiasm for culinary experimentation remains evident, as he expressed interest in incorporating a lasagna Bolognese for the festivities.

Tucci, an avid food enthusiast, shared his fondness for cheese, the versatility of which he incorporates into various dishes. “There’s nothing wrong with a baked camembert, is there?” he mused, adding that he appreciates using pecorino and Parmigiano in his cooking. He saves parmigiano rinds for use in soups, stews, and sauces.

The actor’s culinary journey has been documented in several of his publications, with his latest book “What I Ate In One Year” set to release on October 15. In partnership with S.Pellegrino, Tucci has also introduced a holiday culinary creation called “S.Pellegrino & Stanley Tucci’s Holiday Cheese ‘Cake,'” comprising four artisanal cheeses and available at Murray's Cheese.

Tucci remarked on the significance of food in bringing people together, a theme he explores in his new book. He cited a quote by French gastronome Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin: “Tell me what you eat, and I’ll tell you who you are,” highlighting his belief in the defining role of cuisine in identity.