Resident chef - February 2008
Food has been used to celebrate special occasions for centuries and every event comes with its own traditional dishes. Whether it’s a grand feast with friends and family or an intimate dinner for two, the act of eating together is a celebration of all that is good in life.
This month we commemorate one of the most popular annual celebrations, Valentine’s Day. As with all celebrations, Valentine’s Day is more often than not associated with food, be it a box of chocolates, a fancy meal for two in a restaurant or some edible body paint. But what could be a better and more personal way to say those three little words than to prepare a meal at home for you and your loved one? This is a much more hands-on and bespoke way of celebrating and means that you can tailor every last detail of your special night to suit your own tastes and preferences, ensuring that the evening will be a resounding success. A few words of advice though, as ever I am the man with the plan.
First of all and probably most importantly, KISS (keep it simple stupid!). There is no point in getting dressed up and inviting round your current squeeze, only to spend the whole evening sweating away in the kitchen. Next, think very carefully about what you are going to cook. You don’t want to fill up on mega rich, stodgy food, leaving you too full and uncomfortable to even contemplate any amorous thoughts! With this in mind, there are types of food which should definitely be avoided; as nice as cassoulet is, the effects are a guaranteed deterrent in the initial stages of wooing. Spicy or garlicky foods are also best left for another night.
On the other hand, it is widely believed that certain foods have aphrodisiac properties, the list of which is readily available and surprisingly lengthy. These foods evoke a reaction in the body for different reasons and can be divided into three basic groups. Some foods contain natural stimulants like Phenylalanine (found in chocolate and avocado) and some, by their very nature, are sensuous and melt in the mouth, leaving that warm and cosy feeling. Lastly, there are those foods, such as oysters and champagne, which have taken on an almost mythical level of importance at the traditional Valentine’s meal.
So with a little bit of careful research and some forward planning, it is possible to set the scene, get dressed up and spend a wonderful candlelit evening in with your loved one. And to make it extra special, why not buy a large empty hamper and fill it with the things that you know they will love – taking the time and trouble to go the extra mile will be the icing on the cake.
For a list of aphrodisiac foods, scents, vitamins and minerals visit http://www.lifeinitaly.com/food/aphrodisiac.asp
Chris Staines is Head Chef at Foliage, Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, 66 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7LA, 020 7235 2000.
www.mandarinoriental.com/london