You don’t have to wait for Valentines day to surprise your sweetheart. You don’t have to go and buy expensive pointless gifts. It doesn’t have to be too fussy or overly complicated to make a good impression, remember it’s always the thought that counts. I’m a big believer that making a little effort and taking the time to prepare a meal for someone is one of the most special gifts.

Surprising someone with a special meal is great. Opening up a bottle of nice wine and enjoying each-others company. I cannot think of a better way to end a stressful day. The best thing about doing this (besides putting a smile on her face) is that you don’t have to spend a fortune or hours in the kitchen. With good preparation you can create the perfect meal within 30 minutes.

So, to really get you in the mood, i’ve included some delicious recipes that are aphrodisiacs for you to try at home. Which of course include wine and chocolate!

For the main course let’s keep it nice and simple, a fantastic Steak with saute Mushrooms and Asparagus. Red meat and and red wine go hand in hand. As for dessert, let’s keep it easy and classy with a homemade Chocolate Mousse. For the choice of wine I recommend “Perrin et Fils Côtes du Rhône Villages “. (France) or “Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec”. (Argentina)

Good Luck!

Steak with saute Mushrooms and Asparagus

(Leave the Steak for the end because that is the easiest part)

Hot pan, olive oil. Add your mushrooms and keep the heat high.

Add whatever spices and herbs you like to your mushrooms and asparagus.

Once the mushrooms change color drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar on em’ (Takes them to a completely different level)

Take the mushrooms off and add your asparagus.

Cook until you are happy with the crunch.

Time for the Steak.. (Make sure you get a good piece of meat from the butcher that is thick and juicy)

Hot pan, olive oil.

(Depending on the meat) Rear: 1-2 minutes each side. Medium: 1:30-2:30 minutes each side. Well done: 2-3 minutes each side.

Once you’re happy with the color, turn the Steak once and ONCE ONLY!

30 seconds after turning, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Tilt the pan towards you and just baste the steak with a spoon.

Take your red wine and pour on the hot pan. (Don’t be scared of the fire) And keep basting the steak.

Take it out and let it sit for a couple of minutes…

Enjoy!

Chocolate Mousse 

Melting the Dark Chocolate:

Break it into pieces and place it in a bowl.

Fill up a deep pan with some water and bring it up to the boil.

Place the bowl over the pan and let the chocolate melt.

Whip Cream:

Cream and 1 tablespoon powder sugar then whisk.

DO NOT over whisk the cream. (You want it to be smooth lava)

Once the melted chocolate is room temperature mix together gently and fridge for 15, 20 minutes.

Serve with whatever you want. I like putting fresh strawberries, raspberries on the top, or some nice crispy wafers.

Ingredients: Dark chocolate, cream, icy sugar, topping.