Here’s why steak, salmon, pumpkin, chocolate and more should be in your Valentine’s Day dinner plans.
Most people have heard of oysters as aphrodisiacs: a substance or dish thought to get you in the mood for love. But did you know that there are plenty of less exotic foods you’re likely to be eating every day that can cause the same chemical reaction?
Yes, leafy greens, watermelon, avocados and even bananas are on the list that experts agree often spark physical changes in the body such as increased respiration, heart rate, blood pressure and arousal after we eat them – and there are a whole host hidden within the Hunter & Barrel menu.
Here are the top Hunter foods to fuel the fire, and the dishes to find them in, so that you can plan the perfect Valentine’s Day dinner in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Premium Quality Meat
You’ve come to the right place for this one! Several studies including a recent investigation by the University of Texas have discovered lean red meat boosts our levels of happy hormones dopamine and norepinephrine, which are pivotal for females to feel passion. It’s also choc-full of zinc, which boosts testosterone, making it a potential aphrodisiac for men too.
Red Wine
Research shows that the histamine chemical in red wine dilates blood vessels and increases blood flow. The plant compound resveratrol found in red wine is also a powerful antioxidant, which helps decrease inflammation and, again, gets that passion-perfect blood pumping. For added luxury on Valentine’s Day, check out our Fine Wine menu.
Salmon
Find it in: Cured Salmon Fillet; Wild Caught Salmon Skewer
Salmon is a natural aphrodisiac because of its high level of omega 3, which boosts the feel-good hormone serotonin. It is also jam-packed with vitamins A, D, B and calcium, which all contribute to an increased libido.
Pumpkin
Find it in: Pumpkin & Cauliflower Croquettes; Coal-Roasted Cauliflower & Pumpkin
This versatile and tasty squash is high in fibre and potassium – both stamina builders – and contains magnesium, which can help calm nerves and muscles. A recent study by Chicago’s Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation also found that the smell of pumpkin was the scent that sparked the highest arousal in more than 40% of men.
Chocolate
Find it in: Chocolate Mi-Cuit; Baked Chocolate Cheesecake; Choc Walnut Brownie
We challenge you to think of eating a sweet, smooth chocolate dessert and not get the warm and fuzzies! Chocolate contains the chemicals phenylethylamine and serotonin, which together can make us feel pretty euphoric. Its sheer decadence and melt-in-the-mouth texture is also why chocolate has always been linked to love.
Truffle
Find it in: Truffle Cream
Truffles are rare, expensive, and therefore alluring. They are also high in protein which promotes stamina. But most interestingly of all, the musky aroma of truffles is said to replicate the scent of the male pheromone and rostenone, which makes them a particularly sensual dining choice for women.
Valentine’s Day Treats at Hunter & Barrel
This year on February 14th , all couples cosying up at Hunter & Barrel UAE can enjoy the award-winning A La Carte menu that’s given us the title of Dubai’s Best Steakhouse – plus a complimentary glass of champagne per person and a celebration cake to share.
