Foods that tease tastebuds

Those who believe that the emotion of love has no connection with food, need to think again.

Often marked under the category of aphrodisiac foods such as the ever-popular strawberry and chocolate are fine examples of the expression of love blended with cooking.

Whipping up the passion in the relationship, if not often, couples do end up in the kitchen to cook after a long day. In such a case, what could be better than to make use of aphrodisiac foods for a sizzling meal for Valentine’s Day?

Do not be taken aback by the talk of an ‘aphrodisiac meal’ for there is a huge list of fruits and vegetables that fall in this category.

For starters, one can use avocado to prepare Guacamole – a dip that originated in Mexico and can be savoured with nachos. “Pulp of ripe avocado can be mashed with tomato, onion, garlic, lemon juice, chili, yogurt and other
additional seasonings. Even jalapeno can be added to this,” suggests chef Kapil Sethi from Cavalli Caffe adding that avocado is an aphrodisiac and so is fig which can make for a nice salad when tossed with herbs in a dressing.

As sparks fly, move ahead to the main course, wherein there is no dearth of aphrodisiac components that can be used in cooking. From papaya and rock melon to asparagus, shell fish, prawns, exotic mushroom and even garlic is
a part of this classification.

“Ingredients play a very important role in the meal. Since coriander, saffron and mustard are also aphrodisiac, one can make use of these while cooking,” suggests chef Rajeev Sethi from Fio Cookhouse & Bar informing about the chemical composition of various fruits and vegetables of aphrodisiac foods that lead to the secretion of hormones like testosterone, estrogen and progesterone, which circulate in the bloodstream and stimulate sexual responses.

“Even pomegranate is an aphrodisiac so one can try Dark glazed chicken tossed in pomegranate molasses. The dish can be garnished with fresh pomegranates to add to the aphrodisiac factor. Since chilli is also aphrodisiac, Spitfire Chicken stuffed with olives and red chilli in red wine (another aphrodisiac) sauce is another good option.

Coffee Carpaccio can be added to the mains list for coffee is aphrodisiac. The thin slices of meat are smeared with coffee powder to prepare this Italian classic dish,” adds Rajeev.

Dry fruits like walnuts and pine nuts are also aphrodisiacs and can be used in varied ways in desserts which shall complete the meal. To conclude, lick a chocolate ganache and remember the Valentine’s Day for the food that worked wonders!