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One always doesn't have to splurge on exotic foods and drinks to depict romantic emotions. For aeons of time, civilisations across the globe have revered certain foods, and elements as emblems of love. From the Middle Ages to modern times, these nutritious symbols have been used to convey desire, fertility, and devotion. This Valentine's Day, explore the love foods of different countries and honour the age-old tradition of expressing passion through fruits and veggies! Indulge in their sweet and savoury stories while treating your bae to a love feast. Here are 7 such suggestions which can be the Cupid in your love story.
The Fig of Fertility
Fig, a symbol of sensuality, Image Source: Pexels
Do you have a fetish for figs and like to feast on them? Then up your admiration for them this V' Day. In Greek and Roman mythology, figs are tied to Dionysus, the god of wine, and Priapus, a symbol of sexual desire in the form of a satyr. Fig is certainly one of the most recommended love foods to try with your valentine.
Pomegranates: A Promise of Marriage
Juicy pomegranate seeds, Image Source: Pexels
To the Romans, pomegranates represented matrimony, with brides wearing pomegranate wreaths during weddings. In China, the pomegranate symbolises fertility and is given as a wedding gift to mean "a hundred sons."
Garlic: A Lucky Charm of Love
Although garlic may not seem like a romantic ingredient, it represents luck and fertility in China. Ancient Chinese rulers even used it as an aphrodisiac! Even in India, Ayurveda counts it as a food to fan passion.
The Perfect Strawberry
Luscious strawberry, Image Source: Pexels
In the Victorian language of flowers, the strawberry represents perfection. Double strawberries bring double the love - it's said that breaking one in half and sharing it with another person will result in falling in love.
Spinach: A Secret Love Affair
Do you have a crush you can't reveal? Do you get intimidated to convey your heart out? Then spinach can come to your rescue. In Japan, spinach symbolises secret love. People would wrap gifts in spinach-green paper to express their suppressed emotions.
An Apple a Day Keeps Love at Play
Apple for your apple of your eye, Image Source: Pexels
In medieval times, apples were believed to possess romantic properties, making them a go-to for love rituals. The idea was that if a woman wanted a man to love her, she would place an apple under her arm while she slept and persuade the man to eat it the next day. By consuming the apple, the man was said to fall in love with her.
Carrots: Fertility Friendly
Carrots are considered an aphrodisiac and a symbol of fertility. In the 1870s, men in Tehran would eat sugar-stewed carrots to boost desire. In Scotland, Carrot Sunday celebrates the gift of carrots from women to men as a symbol of fertility.
This Valentine's Day, bring the flavours of love to your table with these vibrant fruits and veggies. And remember, the way to the heart is through the stomach! Don't forget to share the love with family and friends, including your little ones, by whipping up a delicious and easy chocolate orange dessert.
