Traditional Foods That Mean “I Love You”
February 6, 2012
•Le Cordon Bleu
•Chicago
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Traditional Foods That Mean “I Love You”
With Valentine’s Day approaching many people turn to the kitchen to whip up something in that expresses their sentiments of love and devotion. If you have a passion for the culinary arts, Chicago cooking schools can teach you all the techniques you need to create a variety of romantic foods for any occasion. Here are some traditional meals from around the world that mean I love you to get you inspired.
Oysters Rockefeller
Since Roman times the oyster has been considered a food of love and passion. The first written account of them being used as an aphrodisiac dates back to the 2nd century AD. Oysters Rockefeller with its rich sauce, spinach and cheese is a delicious as both an appetizer or as part of a larger meal. Not only is this a romantic treat for a special occasion but it is also a dish rich in iron, protein and vitamin B12.
Any Dish with Lot’s of Garlic
Garlic is one of the world’s oldest aphrodisiacs and has been used among the Chinese, Egyptians, Japanese and Romans. If you are looking for a romantic dinner for two try a nice garlicky Pasta Puttanesca. Named for the ladies of the night, who according to legend used the aroma of its cooking sauce to lure in customers, this dish delivers a lot of flavor without a lot of work. Smash some whole cloves of garlic and mix them in with your tomato sauce, some olives and anchovies pour over pasta and serve with crusty garlic bread and you have a quick, romantic dinner for two.
Pine Nuts
Pine nuts have been considered an aphrodisiac since medieval times and they make a great addition to virtually any meal. Sprinkle them on top sautéed chicken and vegetables or a big salad for a unique flavor and texture. To really pack a romance punch, try making a homemade pesto. A classic in the culinary arts world pesto combines three know aphrodisiacs; basil, garlic and pine nuts combined with olive oil and Parmesan cheese. You can use pesto for anything from sauces to a spread that is great on toast with tomato and olives, perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.
Save Room for Dessert
If you are still in the mood, finish of your valentine’s meals with one of the most romantic foods on earth, chocolate. There is nothing more intimate than sitting over a pot of chocolate fondue and a plate of fruits like strawberries and bananas. You can also learn to make homemade chocolate candies that can be served as dessert or boxed up and given as a romantic gift. Chicago cooking schools offer a variety of courses where you can learn about baking and candy making.
This article is presented by Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago. Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago offers culinary arts and pâtisserie and baking training programs in Chicago, Illinois. To learn more about the class offerings, please visit Chefs.edu/Chicago for more information.
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