The romantic and the organized might have made their reservations at the best restaurants weeks ago, but what if you’re not so organized? Or, what if you secretly want to be a Top Chef yourself and would prefer to make your sweetie dinner on Valentine’s Day?
Padma Lakshmi, host of Top Chef, is also an author of cookbooks Easy Exotic and Tangy, Tart, Hot and Sweet, and she has some advice for those who are trying to get to their loved one’s heart via the stomach. As you plan your menu before the big day, she’s got some suggestions for your romantic meal.
“Make something very simple,” the Top Chef host told the Connecticut Post, “something that isn’t too heavy or strange, but comforting something that makes you feel cozy. A beautiful roast chicken would be great.
“I love the Korean short ribs [a recipe in her book Tangy, Tart, Hot and Sweet]; it’s something you can eat with your hands,” she said. “It’s tangy and savory and allows you to lick your fingers.”
She seems to think your time would be better spent focusing your culinary efforts on the main courses and don’t worry too much about some complicated or time-consuming dessert. Rather, stick with something basic but delicious like ice cream, and make the serving and eating romantic. “Curl up together with a bowl and two spoons,” she suggests.
Need more help with your honey? Some common ingredients are rumored to be aphrodisiacs. Might just be an old wives’ tale, but as they are all delicious, it certainly can’t hurt to try. They include arugula, kelp, artichokes, asparagus, strawberries, tomatoes, chocolate, mangos, and of course, the infamous oyster. If you’re not quite sure what to do with those, Padma’s book Easy Exotic features a Chicken with Mango Chutney recipe, and Tangy, Tart, Hot and Sweet has a salad featuring arugula.
Whether you take Padma’s advice or simply follow one of her recipes, maybe the Top Chef hostess will be your culinary key to a great Valentine’s Day.
– Leslie Seaton, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: Connecticut Post
(Image courtesy of Bravo)
Staff Columnist, BuddyTV
