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copyright ©1999-2005
DigsMagazine.com.
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Rx
for
Xs
&
Os
an aphrodisiac-inspired Valentine's Day fete
by Mandy Karls |
1 2
3 4
|
Don't
wait around for Cupid to take charge this February. With a little
imagination Aphrodite can help you stir things up on your
own. |
| The
Greek goddess of love has lent her name to numerous substances
historically purported to affect our amorous desires. Although
aphrodisiacs are commonly thought of as things that can be eaten
or otherwise ingested, their efficacy ultimately depends on
perception, not digestion. In addition to the tastes, textures and
smells of certain foods, the human brain responds to a variety of
stimuli. Take advantage of this mind-body connection and follow
this simple guide for planning a party that is sure to appeal to
all the senses. |
food
for thought
The month of February is historically associated with
conspicuous consumption and raucous revelry. Rich food and
fine wine plays an essential role in most any Valentine's
Day date, while Mardi Gras (which almost always occurs in
the month of February) provides one last splurge before the
Lenten fast. The ancient Romans also found cause to feast
during "Lupercalia," a celebration of fertility
and sensual pleasure that took place each February 15th. |
|
mood food
Aphrodisiac foods range from the simplistically suggestive to the
ridiculously bizarre. While ground rhinoceros horns and fresh snake
blood have been among the most coveted aphrodisiacs, endangered species
do not exhaust the list of eligible edibles. Spicy foods like chilies
have been recognized for their ability to mimic physical responses to
other types of corporal stimulation. Similarly, foods such as asparagus
and bananas have been prized for their visual likeness to certain body
parts. Other foods and spices that have been thought to arouse more just
our appetites include figs, oysters, berries, almonds, honey, chocolate,
avocado, cherries, coffee, ginger, garlic, mustard, basil, cloves, and
vanilla.
|
|
Serve naughty
nibbles that feature aphrodisiac ingredients. For a simple spread
of no-fuss fare, offer roasted almonds, chocolate covered-coffee
beans, baklava, rum-soaked cherries, gingersnaps and strawberries
with Flameless Chocolate Fondue. Provide a great
conversation starter for your guests by placing a brief
description next to each offering indicating its prurient
properties. |
skedaddle
this way for more
--------------------------->
lounge . nourish
.
host . laze
. home .
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