What would the world be without love? And good food.
The sun is out, a nip in the air with a little bit of romance thrown in - it's the season to fall in love! To say that I know nothing significant about love would be an understatement. Here's what I'm sure of - it's a fuzzy feeling that cannot be expressed in words and of course, you're very emotional about it. That's how I feel about food, good food that is.
Much to my delight, there is a cosmic connection between food and love. An aphrodisiac is a food or drink that stimulates sexual desires, drives passion and evokes the feeling of love. It is named so after Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of sexuality and love. Science agrees, certain foods may affect your brain chemistry and heighten arousal. But do they actually make your heart flutter? You'll have to find that out for yourself, but know that you've been warned.
Treat your sweet with one (or more) of these foods known to make you feel frisky.
Pomegranate
These ruby red seeds are more alluring than what you'd think. It is believed that the forbidden fruit of the Bible which was eaten by Adam and Eve was not an apple, but a pomegranate. It holds quite an exotic reputation due to the rich antioxidant content which is known to support blood flow.
Lamb Chops with Pomegranate Reduction by Chef Gautam Mehrishi
Juicy charcoal-grilled lamb chops generously drizzled with a tarty pomegranate reduction bursting with the color of Valentine's.
Chocolate
Chocolates are the culinary patrons of love. Legend has it, the Aztec Emperor, Montezuma who drank a rich chocolate drink from gold cups about fifty times each day to pep up his sexual ability. Moreover, dark chocolate contains a chemical called phenylethylamine which is known to excite you.
Chocolate Fondue by Chef Vicky Ratnani
Tempt your taste buds with this warm and gooey chocolate fondue, just for two.
Honey
Sticky, sweet and sensuous, honey is more of an indulgence. It contains enzymes and acids that help infuse energizers in our system. Some believe that 'honeymoon' gets its name from a beverage made with honey and wine which was served to the newlyweds as energy boosters back in the day.
Honey Cream with Roasted Walnuts by Chef Joey Matthew
A simple yet satisfying dessert, this is what we'd call pure pleasure.
Strawberry
This heart shaped erotic fruit is inevitable to Valentine's. It is a symbol of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. These feel-good berries can up your feelings almost easily. It is a popular myth that when Aphrodite's lover died she cried with such pain that her tears fell to the ground as tiny red hearts, which are known as strawberries today!
Strawberry Cheesecake Recipe by Chef Sonia Khosla
This gorgeous-looking cheesecake is an absolute treat for your eyes and your senses.
Chillies
Believe it or not, chillies do ignite the sparks of romance. They stir up endorphins in the body that give you a natural high and also speeds up your heart rate.
Spicy Prawns with Sweet Dipping by Chef Ritu Dalmia
These fiery prawns will make your Valentine's Day hot & steamy - and not just at the dinner table!
Figs
This soft, plump fruit is known to have been found in the Garden of Eden. The ripe fruit with seeds symbolizes sexuality and the fig leaf represents modesty. It owes its passion powers to the high potassium and antioxidant content.
A lovely fig mousse that can give you more than just a sugar rush.
Wine
Besides helping you relax and unwind, wine is known to trigger romantic trysts due to the power of its high antioxidant content. The silky, smooth feel that wine offers, reduces anxiety and lowers inhibitions.
Fish in Wine Butter Sauce by Chef Vicky Ratnani
You know what they say, 'Fish, to taste right, must swim three times- in water, in butter, and in wine.'
Vanilla
Vanilla is one of the most sought-after ingredients. Studies have shown that the fragrant aroma and rich flavour drives men. A lot of it can be attributed to its sweet and sensual aroma which enhances your mood.
Vanilla Bean Cupcakes by Chef Suhani Mahajan Bhel
If you're not a fan of vanilla, you probably haven't tried these cupcakes yet! These dainty clouds of heaven will win your heart.
