There’s a secret to Valentine’s Day cooking — it’s all in the spices and herbs you use.
For as long as history has been recorded, scholars – and chefs — of old have found that spices and herbs play a pivotal role in improving one’s health, and better yet, enhancing one’s passions and stimulating more than one kind of appetite.
As Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila celebrates the day of love and romance with special Valentine’s day packages, the French hotel gives lovers insider’s tips for which spices, herbs and ingredients to use in their home cooked Valentine’s feasts — and what each of them spices can help lovers achieve.
Ginger
Health-wise, ginger is known for its high amounts of potassium, copper and magnesium. More interestingly, these natural properties are also said to enhance one’s disposition and increases the heart rate, making it easier to, so to speak, get in the right mood.
Basil
Italians have been known to use basil in most dishes as it improves circulation, stimulates one’s libido and boosts fertility. Couples longing for a child can consider pastas, pizzas, savory sandwiches and even refreshments chock-full of the leafy herb!
Lemongrass
While lemongrass is widely used for detoxification (especially when infused in teas), it’s also found in an array of aromatherapy items like massage oils and lotions. The herb relieves stress, anxiety and fatigue, and it will most certainly help couples feel at ease in each other’s company, regardless of they decide to include it in their Valentine’s repertoire.
Cardamom
Cardamom is a spice native to countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia and Nepal. Known for improving blood circulation and warding off impotency, gentlemen might want to consider familiarizing themselves with recipes containing copious amounts of the spice before Valentine’s Day.
Saffron
This yellow-colored spice found mostly in Spanish, Italian and Indian cuisine is said to be powerful aphrodisiac. Don’t be fooled; while it’s easy to infuse in many recipes and adds a rather subtle flavor, saffron’s sexually-enhancing effects can pack a real punch.
Cayenne pepper
Unlike the other spices on this list, cayenne pepper doesn’t exactly have effects on one’s sexual appetites, but what it can do is suppress appetite — a little goes a long way! If you think you’ll need a firmer conscience at the dinner table when you’re tempted to indulge (and trying to avoid a bloated middle section your date might notice), cayenne pepper will be your best bet.
Vanilla and almonds
Both of these ingredients are equally delicious and full of unique health benefits, but one thing they have in common is having the ability to regulate blood pressure. The last thing you want to be on Valentine’s is irritable, restless, uneasy and generally unrelaxed, so ending a meal with a dessert with these ingredients is one way to set out for smooth sailing on Valentine’s.
Roses
That’s right; roses aren’t just given on Valentine’s anymore, they can be eaten or drank, too! Rose water and rose oil infusions are mostly found in desserts and teas and are enjoyed for their cooling effect on the body. When it’s time to turn in after an evening of passion, a sip of rose or rose bud tea before bedtime can usher in a good night’s rest.
