Michelin-Trained Chef Reveals the THREE Aphrodisiac Ingredients You Need This Valentine’s
A Michelin-trained chef from Armathwaite Hall has shared the three aphrodisiac ingredients he intentionally uses when cooking for romance, explaining how certain flavours, colours and textures can help a meal feel more intimate, indulgent and emotionally connective.
Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and whether you are going out to eat or you’re looking forward to a home-cooked meal, it’s time to dial up the romance. New research shows that 49% of us are planning to enjoy a meal out this Valentine’s Day, while last year saw 17% of married Britons buy their partner food as a Valentine’s gift, with a further 40% cooking a romantic meal in the comfort of their own home.
It seems the younger generations are most excited by a romantic dinner date, with 58% of 18-28-year-olds (Gen Z) planning to head out for Valentine’s. This is compared to just 39% of Millennials (29-44) and 27% of Boomers (61-70).
Thinking beyond food, Valentine’s Day is also a popular time to get intimate with your partner, with 20% of us revealing that 14 February is our favourite day to have sex. 14% of men would actually prefer an evening spent in the bedroom than at a restaurant, while 10% of women would prioritise good sex over an evening of dining.
So, if you’re heading out to your favourite restaurant or cooking together at home this year, which ingredients should you look out for to ensure your evening ends with intimacy? Chris Lee, Michelin-trained chef at luxury Lake District hotel, Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa, reveals the top aphrodisiac ingredient you need this Valentine’s Day.
1. Perfectly cooked steak
“Everyone loves a good steak and, when it’s pan-seared with a little pepper, garlic butter and thyme, it’s the perfect Valentine’s Day addition. There’s a reason why steak always features on set menus for Valentine’s!” Says Chris Lee.
“Steak contains high levels of zinc, which is known to increase sex drive in men. It also has the power to raise dopamine and norepinephrine levels, which contribute to increased arousal for women.
“Not too heavy, with a delicate, layered flavour, pan-seared steak is the ideal aphrodisiac to get you and your partner into the mood for intimacy.”
2. Heart-red pomegranates
Chris says,“Packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, pomegranates support your digestion and can even help protect your brain. The juice of this powerhouse fruit can also raise testosterone levels in the body, improving your sex drive.
“This bright red superfood is the ideal addition to your Valentine’s meal, thanks to its striking colour and the delicate appearance of the seeds themselves. Sprinkle over salads, mix the juice into cocktails and add as a garnish to your favourite dessert for a pomegranate-packed menu.”
3. Sensual saffron
“Long praised for its ability to enhance our senses and aid with arousal, saffron is the best spice to add to your dish this Valentine’s Day. A prominent addition to many Valentine’s set menus, saffron’s complex flavour profile is at once floral, sweet and earthy.
“Saffron can help increase libido, arousal and stamina, as well as decrease sexual problems for both men and women. This gorgeous spice adds a beautiful honey-yellow tone to dishes, and I love adding it to creamy risottos, vegetable soups, shortbread dessert bases and even homemade ice cream.” Chris says.
Keep an eye out for these aphrodisiac ingredients this Valentine’s Day – whether on the menu at your favourite restaurant or in a lovingly prepared home-cooked meal – and remember to make time for intimacy this February.
Written by Millie Bradbury