17/10/2015
12th-18th October 2015 is National Chocolate Week... and it's nearly over! So, I have dug out a quick and easy chocoholic recipe for you guys and girls that you can make before the week is over. Find the recipe below some interesting information about chocolate...
Women often joke about preferring dark chocolate to s*x - and chocolate is a well-known aphrodisiac. Casanova was known for eating chocolate before sleeping with his conquests!
Chocolate makes us feel good but is there any real explanation behind it (aside from the delicious taste and texture of course!)? It is thought that substances like serotonin and phenylethylamine produce a high in your brain that makes you feel giddy and generally more attractive. It’s also thought to release endorphins which makes us feel oh, so happy!
And the even more fantastic news is that it can actually be very good for you! It’s also well known that women crave chocolate around the time of menstruation. Some scientists think this is because chocolate contains magnesium and women are lacking it at this point of the cycle.
Other than magnesium chocolate contains iron, potassium and more great vitamins that keep us healthy and well. Probably that and the fact we’re feeling a bit sorry for ourselves and could do with a pick me up. Any excuse!
It's thought that Hernan Cortes, one of Christopher Columbus's ambassadors first received cocoa as a gift from an Aztec emperor. He took cocoa back to Spain in 1527 where the Spanish kept it a secret for over a century, and they taxed it so highly that only the rich people could afford it. Eventually in around 1650, chocolate came to the UK and the Chocolate Houses of London were born, but it was still a drink for the rich.
It was only in the 18th and 19th century that it began to be produced in the chocolate form we recognise today.
Casanova's Mocha Sex-Pot
This single-serve recipe is quick and easy and equipment-wise just takes a mug, a teaspoon and a tablespoon. Share this warm and fudgy dish with your loved-one if you fancy a bit of spice in the bedroom tonight as it contains 6, yes.. 6, ingredients with known aphrodisiac qualities.
Almonds - a historic fertility symbol containing vitamin E and magnesium which help with the production of the s*x hormones testosterone, estrogen and progesterone. The aroma is also said arouse passion in females.
Cocoa - contains PEA (phenylethylamine) which releases dopamine in the pleasure centres of the brain. It also contains tryptophan which is a key component for the neurotransmitter serotonin, providing a sense of well-being and relaxation.
Honey - contains the trace mineral boron which helps to metabolise the female s*x hormone. It also enhances testosterone in the blood which promotes s*x drive and or**sm in males and females.
Vanilla - mildly stimulates nerves, helping to intensify sensations.
Walnuts - contains vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids to help keep s*x hormone production at it's peak.
Cinnamon - helps to increase alertness and focus, maximising awareness of sensations. A mood enhancer with a warming and stimulating effect. The scent of cinnamon is known to be particularly stimulating to males.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoons self-raising flour
2 tablespoons cocoa
1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
5 tablespoons water
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips
(Ice cream or whipped cream to serve on top if you wish)
1. Butter inside of a mug. Add all ingredients to the mug. Stir thouroughly until completely combined. Make sure to mix right down to the bottom!
2. Wipe inside rim of cup to remove excess batter. Microwave on high power until cake has risen and looks moist (not wet) on top, for 70 seconds (800W). Avoid overcooking or it will be dry. Let rest to cool briefly before topping with ice cream or cream if you wish and eating with your love-buddy. Mmmm, sweeeeet ;)
