Sexy Recipes From Around The World

Aphrodisiacs, defined as any substance that increases sexual desire, are named after the Greek goddess of love and sexuality, Aphrodite. Scientists insist that most natural aphrodisiacs have a placebo effect, working only because users believe that they will. But, as anyone who’s ever enjoyed a sumptuous meal followed by an extended makeout session will tell you, the human mind (and desire) can be a remarkably powerful thing.

For some ingredients used in the sexy recipes below, the aphrodisiacs passion-inducing properties may be psychosomatic. Oysters have been regarded as a libido-booster since ancient Roman times, in part because they look like a certain aspect of the female anatomy, and in part because we slurp and suck them seductively. But, like Pine Nuts, they also have lots of zinc, which is believed to increase testosterone. Avocado was known by the Aztecs as ahuacuatl (or “testicle tree”), and young maidens were kept inside while the fruit was being harvested. And I don’t think we even need to tell you why Cucumbers fit into this category.

But while some of the ingredients in these sexy recipes are labelled as aphrodisiacs primarily for the suggestiveness of their physical properties, many others may create physiological responses that lead directly to sultry evenings requiring a Barry White soundtrack.

Basil, with which women used to dust their breasts because its scent drove men wild, is said to improve circulation. Carrots, which were used as aphrodisiacs in ancient Greece and Arabia, are rich in the antioxidant beta-carotene, which improves mucous membranes and can help increase natural lubrication. Chocolate, whose potency was legendary among the Aztecs, contains phenylethylamine, a chemical that causes elevated heart and energy rates and a euphoria not unlike being madly in love. Cinnamon produces heat within the body, increasing both physical and sexual appetite; and a drop of its oil on the genitals is said to produce incredible sexual stimulation akin to Spanish fly.

From Cayenne and Coriander to Ginger and Garlic, each of these sexy recipes is chock full of aphrodisiacs believed to get your motor running so you can head out on a highway of prolonged passion. We’ve set the menu for you, so now all you need to do is get your partner in the kitchen and start… erm, “cooking.”  –Bret Love