Food: The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Aphrodisiac

Throughout history, certain foods have been considered natural aphrodisiacs. When I recently met Amy Reiley — a journalist, author, and expert on gastronomy – the timing couldn't have been more fortuitous. I immediately set out to pick her brain about Valentine's Day. When someone's been married several decades like I have, the holiday can become quite staid—if you know what I mean. I was thrilled to be able to ask Amy about how aphrodisiac foods can make Valentine's Day more sexy and fun—for me and for you.

With an unusual background blending journalism and gastronomy, Amy has a master's degree in gastronomy from Le Cordon Bleu, where her studies focused on aphrodisiacs. Catch the whimsical names of her books: Her latest, called Romancing the Stove, is a sequel to Fork me, Spoon Me: The Sensual Cookbook. Either one would be a unique Valentine's Day gift. She is also the creator of the quirky blog called EatSomethingSexy.com.

Here's Amy's advice about how foods and a little forethought can make Valentine's Day sexy and fun:

What qualities make certain foods aphrodisiacs? 

It depends on your ultimate goal. In my new book, I've centered the recipe chapters on the kind of results you wish to achieve from various aphrodisiac ingredients. For example, you can seduce someone with the scent of truffles or you can boost your libido by eating watermelon. You can get a quick shot of energy at a moment when you need it most with coffee, or you can cook a sensual dinner together with lobsters and champagne. 

Which culinary aphrodisiacs are some of your personal favorites? 

Here are my favorites but they definitely aren't all right for everyone: champagne, mussels, chile peppers, figs, uni (sea urchin), and coffee. It's sort of like wine: You have to cater to personal preference. Even if the chef thinks the big, tannic cabernet sauvignon works the best with the meal, if you don't like tannic wine it isn't going to work for you.  

There are many others I love but you'll find that the majority of great aphrodisiacs have one thing in common: They're "good for you" foods—healthy sources of lean protein, vitamin, mineral and fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, alluring spices, etc.

Would you consider alcoholic drinks to be aphrodisiacs? Why or why not? If so, which ones?

Wine is absolutely aphrodisiac. Historically, all alcohol is considered aphrodisiac for its ability to lower inhibition and—in small doses—lift spirits. However, wine's antioxidant benefits are great for your sex life. In addition, the scents of certain wines are believed to replicate human pheromones. I consider wine so important to the aphrodisiac world that I dedicated an entire chapter to it in Romancing the Stove. 

Of course, all alcohol must be enjoyed in modest doses. Too much of this good thing and an evening can go downhill very quickly.  

What effect does setting have on the aphrodisiac qualities of food?

There's been little research on atmosphere influencing the aphrodisiac effects of food. However, from personal experience, I can definitely say that the setting matters. More than anything, I think the key to a successful romantic meal is being present in the moment. So a softly lit, quiet dining room is much more likely than a bustling bistro to allow the food to captivate your senses.

If you were going to design a Valentine's Dinner to woo a lover or spouse to bed, what would you put on the menu?

I would center it around the things he or she likes. My partner and I have very different tastes in food but for this one night, I would put his preferences first. No matter what you choose for the meal, I recommend trying to add a variety of temperatures and textures to your dish. So if you're planning a hot asparagus soup, try adding a dollop of cold crème fraiche at the last minute and a side of warm crostini. I think that a variety of sensations in the same dish really emphasizes the... Well, the sensuality of the meal. 

Try to plan something that can be at least partially made in advance. When it comes time to woo with your food, you don't want to be stuck in front of the stove and you certainly don't want to waste energy you should be using to shower your lucky guest with attention. 

Pick your partner or indulge yourself on Valentine's Day. Follow Amy at @forkmespoonme.