APHRODISIACS – A CRASH COURSE

Love is in the air and we at Savour Calgary are nothing if not romantics. To celebrate Valentine’s Day, we’ve put together a “Crash Course” on the lusty libations, titillating tidbits and naughty noshes known as aphrodisiacs.

THE SHAPE OF THINGS

If you believe in the power of suggestion, bananas, asparagus and mushrooms are flagrantly phallic and if you’ve ever seen a papaya cut in half, it’s plain to see how it made the list. Even the digital world is in the game with eggplant and peach emojis taking on their own symbology.

APHRODITE, BORN OF THE SEA

Aphrodisiacs are named for the Greek goddess of love, beauty, desire and procreation. Given that one of her two origin stories has Aphrodite born from the Mediterranean, it’s no surprise many Greek (and later Roman) aphrodisiacs are seafood. While the Roman version of the goddess, Venus, is depicted emerging from a scallop shell in Botticelli’s famous painting, it’s another bivalve that has become famous for making people frisky – the oyster.

LOVE POTION OR FALSE NOTION?

Most herbs, spices and ingredients thought to be aphrodisiacs have little or no basis in scientific fact…at least directly. However, various nutrients can promote health in systems that impact sexual desire.

Will pomegranate promote passion? No, but it may reduce cortisol levels, which can increase testosterone production.

Will asparagus arouse you? Not necessarily, but aspartic acid helps neutralize ammonia, which leads to fatigue…and everyone has likely heard (or said) “Not, tonight honey. I’m too tired.”

Speaking of excuses, bananas aren’t just another pretty piece of fruit. Their potassium can help reduce the risk of headaches.

Foods high in omega-3, like eggs and fatty fish, improve brain function – and the brain is where every naughty notion starts.

Garlic, coffee, citrus and beets increase blood flow to the nether regions (and everywhere else, for that matter).

Foods rich in tyrosine (from which the body makes dopamine) like almonds, avocados, bananas, eggs, beans, fish, chicken and dark chocolate all have potentially aphrodisiac effects.

OYSTERS: FIFTY A DAY KEPT CASANOVA AT PLAY

The 18th-century Italian romantic Giacomo Casanova is said to have eaten 50 raw oysters for breakfast every day. With a rumoured 132 lovers over his lifetime, he may have been onto something.

One study suggested oysters increased production of testosterone in male rats and progesterone in females through a rare amino acid called D-aspartic.

Oysters also contain high levels of zinc,which is thought to aid in the production of dopamine – one of the brain’s feel-good chemicals.

It’s most likely the open oyster’s suggestive symbolism that adds to its powers.

GET DOWN IN COWTOWN

Now that you know what foods will get your lover’s motor running, here’s where to get your tantalizing treats this Valentine’s Day:

Champagne: If it’s a date you’re after, check out UNTITLED Champagne Lounge which specializes in bodacious bubbles. You’ll also find oysters, caviar and other seductive snacks on the menu. For one of Calgary’s best selections of champagne and sparkling wine for a more intimate setting, pick up a Champagne 2Pac at Metrovino.

Chocolate: Our cup runneth over when it comes to quality chocolatiers. In fact, the Early Spring issue of Savour Calgary will really get into it, so stay tuned. In the meantime, arouse your tastebuds and more with the Passion Fruit Bonbons at Cochu Chocolatiers.

Oysters: If you’re going out, you can’t miss with Rodney’s Oyster Bar. If you’d rather do your shucking in private, hidden gem Meta4 Foods is where the pros go for their oysters.

Fresh Fruit: Head to any of Calgary’s great farmers’ markets to squeeze some avocados (not too hard!) or peel a banana.

Charcuterie: Nothing’s more sensual than finger food and the charcuterie boards at Fraser and Fig make for a gorgeous spread.

Sexy Spices: If you really want to get your heart pounding, work up a sweat with a spicy meal – bonus points if you get to lick your fingers. East African cuisine offers both. Try the Ethiopian and Eritrean delights at Abyssinia Restaurant.