In an endearing throwback from Late Night with David Letterman, legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese and his mother, Catherine, captivated audiences with their charming kitchen antics. The segment not only showcased the beloved director’s family bond but also unveiled a unique culinary tip from Mrs. Scorsese herself: cutting pizza with scissors.
Catherine Scorsese, who clearly ruled the kitchen even while her son directed Hollywood’s biggest stars, shared this unconventional yet practical method for slicing pizza.
According to her, using scissors ensures perfectly cut slices and prevents scratching the pan, a technique she learned from her mother-in-law. “I use the scissors because my mother-in-law taught me to use the scissors. You always cut it better with the scissors. And you don’t scratch your pan!” she explained.
This surprising approach left Letterman and the audience amused and intrigued, highlighting Catherine’s no-nonsense and efficient kitchen wisdom. Her practical advice and warm presence were a testament to the influence she had on her son, known for his meticulous attention to detail in films such as Goodfellas, Taxi Driver, and Killers of the Flower Moon.
Throughout the segment, Catherine’s straightforward demeanor and culinary prowess shone through. She even took the opportunity to correct Letterman’s overzealous parmesan sprinkling, reinforcing her role as the undisputed kitchen boss. Her pizza, which actor Robert De Niro has praised as “the best pizza in the world,” became a topic of conversation, adding another layer of charm to the delightful exchange.
Catherine Scorsese’s appearances in more than a dozen of her son’s films have made her a familiar face to fans of Martin Scorsese’s work. Her culinary skills and memorable personality, often showcased in these cameos, left a lasting impression on audiences. The anecdote about De Niro enjoying her pizza adds to the allure, making us wish we could have experienced a meal at the Scorsese family table.
While the exact recipe for Catherine’s acclaimed pizza sauce remains a mystery, one can only imagine the secret ingredients she might have used, inspired by her son’s films. Perhaps, like in Goodfellas, the garlic was meticulously sliced with a razor, adding a touch of cinematic flair to her homemade pizza.
For those looking to elevate their pizza game, taking a cue from Catherine Scorsese and reaching for a pair of scissors might just be the perfect start. After all, if it’s good enough for De Niro, it’s good enough for us.
