Aphrodisiacs and why we love (eating) them

An aphrodisiac is a food, drink, or substance that stimulates sexual desire

SOME dates are undeniably romantic: sunset dinners on the beach or drinks overlooking a city skyline. But do you know what can really turn the sensual energy up a notch? Aphrodisiacs.

An aphrodisiac is a food, drink, or substance that stimulates sexual desire. Eating the right foods can make a huge difference to your sex life. For example, watermelon.

Most people do not realise that watermelon has been tested in a lab to help prove its relationship to sexual fulfilment. Reports reveal that besides its fresh, natural flavour, it is contains phytonutrients, one of which is citrulline, which may serves as a substitute for Viagra.

It is reported that the citrulline in watermelon relaxes blood vessels and boosts nitric oxide, which can help with erectile dysfunction.

Citrulline is an amino acid made in our bodies, but getting it from foods such as watermelon help enhance its positive effects.

Watermelon Salad (Serves: 8-10)

Ingredients:

5 tomatoes, de-seeded and chopped

800g watermelon, de-seeded and cut into chunks

1 red onion, finely sliced into rings

4 stalks of celery, sliced

200g feta, cut into cubes

100g black olives, pitted and halved

125ml chopped fresh mint

Dressing:

60ml olive oil

45ml red wine vinegar

10ml honey

5ml Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper

Method:

In a large bowl, combine the salad ingredients, except for the mint. Stir gently to combine.

Place dressing ingredients in a jug and whisk together well. Pour the dressing over the salad and allow to marinate for 10-15 minutes. Just before serving, stir in the mint.

Here are two other aphrodisiacs, courtesy of Jenni Holdsworth, the owner of Bella Rouge.

Chocolate

Cocoa beans contain phenylethylamine, a compound that triggers the release of endorphins, which are associated with pleasure. So yes ladies, that is why you crave it so much. Darker chocolate contains more cocoa powder. Why not indulge in a little of your favourite?

Avocado

Avocado is also known as the “Testicle Fruit”. With its creamy delicious flesh and suggestive shape, they are the new go-to for aphrodisiac foods.

Avocado chocolate brownies

Ingredients:

1 large or 2 medium, ripe avocados (skin and pit removed)

½ cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup

¼ cup brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

½ tsp baking soda

½ cup plain flour

½ cup cocoa powder

½ tsp salt or a pinch of sea salt

½ cup chocolate chips or cocoa nibs

Method:

Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a lightly greased 23cm baking dish.

In a food processor, add the avocado, maple syrup, and sugar. Blend well. Then add the eggs and vanilla extract.

Mix well so that all the ingredients are blended. Make sure to scrape down the sides.

Slowly add the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa and stir well. Turn off the processor and remove the blade. Stir in the chocolate chips using a spoon or spatula.

Spread the batter into the baking dish evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until done.

Test the middle of the batter with a knife or toothpick to ensure it is fully baked and that no batter sticks to the knife or toothpick.

Remove from heat and let cool before cutting into squares.

Recipes from IOL Archives.