www.womanthismonth.com February 2018 FEATURE | valentine's special 29 This pencil-like vegetable is packed with nutrients needed for healthy hormone production. It is best known as one of the richest sources of vitamin E, which has myriad health benefits, most notably, for glowing skin. Moreover, studies show that the compounds found in asparagus, known as steroid glycosides, have the ability to ensure optimal secretion of your love hormones. The green (or white, the exotic variety) spears are an indispensable part of French cooking, and can be found in the culinary creations of restaurants offering classic French gastronomy. La Fontaine’s fine dining outlet is an example that outdoes other eateries for its sophisticated ambience and attention to detail, where eating is art, rather than an activity. To share a spontaneous rendezvous with your significant other, pop in to Café Lilou, a firm favourite amongst islanders for its décor reminiscent of a 19th century Parisian brasserie. Its design, atmosphere and food is a tribute to the days of Moulin Rouge and Bohemian flair. ASPARAGUS CHILLI This one will literally add the spice to your affair. Capsaicin is the component responsible for the heat in the pods, and stimulates nerve endings on the tongue, which releases epinephrine (adrenaline). This in turn releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. Endorphins leave one with a floating, energised feeling – perfect for a night out with your partner. Not only can some spice in your food increase your heart rate, it can also raise body temperature and give your cheeks an alluring, rosy blush. Popular Asian cuisines use chillies in their dishes. Head to Nirvana at the Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, to treat yourself and your Valentine to an Indian feast fit for a maharaja. With food that is a brilliant display of colours and tantalising flavours, accompanied by the dreamy tunes of the santoor, the fireworks will continue well after the repast. The very dramatic setting of Keizo, the Asian outlet at Al Areen Palace & Spa, will itself set the heart racing. Couples can be transported to a different world altogether, relishing spicy south-east Asian specialities on the manmade island under the canopy of their personal gazebo. Now that is bound to take you straight to seventh heaven. The ancient Greeks (who knew a thing or two about passion) touted this ruby-red fruit as a culinary symbol of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. A prominent player in romantic folklore, it is recognised as a symbol of hope and eternal life in many cultures. For centuries, it has been used for its potent medicinal properties. Studies have demonstrated that pomegranate juice has the power to raise testosterone levels in both men and women. The gem-like seeds are a quintessential ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking, in both sweet and savoury preparations. Sweet and tart pomegranate molasses or dehydrated seeds add a complex flavour profile to dishes like lamb kebabs, majboos and baba ghanoush. For the real taste of the cuisine, head to Takht Jamsheed for a fine dining experience rich with the flavours of Persia. If you’d like to drink up pomegranate in a potion, Bushido has an extensive beverage menu to choose from. Opt for the classic Singapore Sling or the signature Inaga to quicken the pace of the evening and get the fervour going. POMEGRANATE
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