Before you turn up the heat in the bedroom, turn up the heat in your oven.
Aphrodisiacs are foods, herbs or spices believed to naturally arouse sexual instinct and enhance performance. Dark chocolate and strawberries may be the first ones that come to mind, but there are heartier combinations.
Long Island registered dietitian, chef and nutritionist Nicolette Pace has four recipes for a better sex life that will feed your desire and ultimately leave you feeling satisfied.
This fare should be consumed an hour before the night gets spicy — two if it’s going to get raucous.
“You don’t want any cramping or embarrassing GI issues during big moments, so keep meals light,” Pace told The Post.
Oysters and other shellfish
Oysters’ reputation as an aphrodisiac dates back to ancient Greece and myths surrounding Aphrodite, the goddess of love.
Pace said in reality, oysters supply lean protein and minerals like zinc.
“Zinc acts to balance testosterone and dopamine for enhanced libido, blood flow and physical enhancement,” she said.
She recommends making oyster gratin by topping fresh or frozen oysters with butter-sautéed shallots, sherry and parsley.
Sprinkle panko crumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and extra virgin olive oil over the oysters and bake quickly until lightly browned.
If you’re not an oyster fan, other shellfish can be just as stimulating.
Go for shrimp — infuse them with sex hormone boosters like basil, oregano and garlic in a citrus marinade with a bit of extra virgin olive oil.
Ribs
More bone, more moan?
Bone-in pork chops are an unbeatable meat to sink your teeth into, Pace said.
“Ribs are lean cuts rich in protein, B vitamins (energy, nerve conduction), zinc, selenium and iron with a light sweetness,” she explained.
Because fat and sugar can cause brain fog and disrupt climax, Pace suggests making a “naked marinade” with apple butter, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard and a little coconut oil.
Potatoes
“Instead of sleepytime starches, take advantage of the extra energy benefits potatoes offer,” Pace said.
“With B vitamins and slow-burning complex carbs, they’re a great addition to a frolicking night.”
Pace proposes slightly pre-cooking the potatoes, cutting them into thick slices or wedges and tossing with fresh cracked sea salt and pepper, chopped garlic and olive oil. Grill on medium heat for a golden crust.
Watermelon
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering good time, watermelon has been called “nature’s Viagra.”
It contains citrulline, an amino acid that plays a key role in the production of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow throughout the body, including to the penis.
“Brush a mixture of honey or coconut sugar, lime and seasonal cilantro on sliced fresh watermelon, oil your grill and brulee away,” Pace advised. “Use a baking pan underneath to catch the sweet and spicy juices.”
What to avoid pre-romp
- Foods that are low in carbs, high in fat or heavily processed should be kept at arm’s length because they can contribute to feelings of drowsiness and lethargy.
- While small amounts of alcohol can temporarily boost confidence and mood, there’s nothing worse than a partner in a drunken stupor.
- Excessive caffeine can inhibit sex by increasing stress hormones. Hydrate instead with electrolyte drinks or flavor-infused waters. “[They] will wet your whistle in preparation for hugs and tickles!” Pace said.