Chef Marcus Samuelsson

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Marcus Samuelsson is one of America’s top chefs. Indeed, he recently won the TV cooking competition, Top Chef Masters. Add that to accolades including 3 star-reviews from the New York Times and awards from the James Beard Foundation. Samuelsson was born in Ethiopia. But after his birth mother died, he was adopted by a couple from Sweden, where he grew up. Samuelsson’s food takes in influences from, among other places, Sweden, Ethiopia and New York City, where he lives. The World’s Alex Gallafent spoke to Samuelsson and asked the chef to share some of his musical influences too. (Photo: Alex Gallafent) Download MP3

• Video: Watch the Samuelsson cook for kids at the Harlem YMCA
• Marcus Samuelsson online
• Red Rooster Harlem

Vietnam’s second largest city

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For today’s Geo Quiz, we’re looking for Vietnam’s second largest city. At one time, it was the capital of North Vietnam, but now it’s the capital of the entire country. This is an old city… really old.

Hummus world record

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Hummus is on the menu for today’s Geo Quiz. Hummus is a concoction of mashed chickpeas, olive oil, and lemon juice with a pinch of salt and garlic. It’s especially popular in the Middle East where it originated. Today’s Geo Quiz wants to get a bit more specific… Download MP3

• See photos of the giant plate of hummus
• Watch a video

Disguising the durian fruit

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Roadside stands across southeast Asia are currently full of durian fruit. Many love the taste of the durian. But for some, the smell presents, well, challenges. The smell has been likened to old socks, smelly cheese and a diaper pail…all rolled into one. Now, some of the region’s top chefs are thinking of clever ways to disguise the durian’s distinctive odor, in a bid to get more people to eat it. Nancy Greenleese reports.

Chef Feraz sizzles on Iraqi television

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Every day, millions of Iraqis tune in to the TV program “Good Morning, Iraq.” And the program’s big draw? Chef Feraz, the man widely considered to be Iraq’s own top chef. His cooking tips are widely sought after by many, especially women. The BBC’s Natalia Antelava reports. >>>Click here for a BBC video of Chef Feraz.

The world’s private chefs gather

The private chefs who serve the world’s presidents, prime ministers, and kings are members of an exclusive club called the “Club of Leaders’ Chefs.” The 25-member club is in Italy today for their annual meeting. Anchor Lisa Mullins finds out what’s on the agenda…and on the menu…from Mark Flanigan, private chef to Queen Elizabeth.
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