Seduction Meals

Chocolate Seduction for Valentine's Day

2009-01-27T01:50:39Z

Chocolate is the ultimate indulgence and what better excuse then Valentine's Day? Here are some of my favorite collections this year. Why not send your man a link to this post for a little nudge for something super special this year.
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Knipschildt Chocolatier Rose Truffle Box - $32
Nothing says "I Love You" like our Rose Truffle Box. These beautiful red handmade paper boxes are filled with rich dark chocolate truffles with a rose water infused dark chocolate ganache center topped with an edible rose petal.

Ricchiuti Sesame Nougat Box (8pc) - $19
Sesame Nougat...creamy chocolate ganache atop a crispy layer of sesame nougat. A January exclusive!...Order Now!

Oliver Kita - Studio Collection $40
For the loves of your life Oliver has created spectacular Valentines gifts, each a unique collection and design.

Pierre Marcolini's Round Heart Box - $45
This Black Round Box beautifully presents 15 Coeur Framboise chocolates. The hearts contain raspberry chocolate ganache centers, coated with a white chocolate house blend. The red coloring, Rouge Cochenille, is sprayed onto the finished chocolates, making this collection a favorite romantic gift.

Romanico's Truffles - $72.00
True chocoholics understand that one truffle, one flavor, one tiny box, is never enough. We have taken our inspiration from these chocolate lovers and created this giant gift box of decadent truffles. 24 truffles

Jacques Torres Bon Bons - $50
What is Jacques famous for? Fresh, high-quality chocolates attractively packaged in his signature box and affordably priced. 50 bon bons.

Knipschildt Chocolatier Heart Box - $45
Full of Love! These hand made artisan chocolates are especially designed for that "someone special" in your life. Packaged in a beautifut heart shaped handmade paper box, these decadent flavor pairings are matches made in heaven.

Pierre Marcolini's Petit Truffles (9 pieces) - $25.75
Pierre Marcolini's famous truffles are created in three distinct flavors ranging from a traditional dark chocolate truffle to the exotic Tonka bean infusion.

Richart Chocolate Little Gourmet Collection with Chocolate Card - $32
The best way to taste both solid and filled chocolates at the same time...it is sure to please chocolate lovers of all ages. For a unique touch add a pure chocolate card with special message. 9 pieces of chocolate and a chocolate message.

Martine's Choclates - Heart Covered Chocolate with Marzipan Roses
This is currently a special order item. Please contact the shop / visit site to get contact info

Christopher Elbow Chocolate Collection - $40
Our flagship assortment that includes all 21 flavors that we are currently producing. Flavors rotate throughout the seasons so there will always be something new and exciting. 21-Piece Collection

Seductive Games and Gifts for Your Valentine

2009-01-26T23:32:58Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com
Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two.

Take your Valentines Day celebration to another level. Here are some creative ideas for seductive games and gifts for Valentine's Day beyond chocolate and roses. Gifts range from cute to sassy to over-the-top.
]]> Hidden message collar stays - $39.95
Why settle for tucking love notes in his briefcase when you can deliver a message of love from much closer range? Both the PG-version and the more racy collar stays are made from stainless steel and feature 12 different messages of love and lust. PG version includes messages such as "You're so handsome" and "You make me laugh". Racy version includes messages such as "I might if you ask me" and "That tie will be useful"

Undrest cami and girl short set $49.95 - $119.90
How very alluring--lingerie that's as delightful to put on as it is to take off. Maria Paz Navales designs her Undrest collection for a flattering fit and seductive comfort, tailoring the racer-back chemise and ruffled girl shorts from petal-pink Supima® --America's finest, silkiest cotton. Black silk ribbons, lace, and decorative over-stitching trace your shape.

I love you candles -$29.95
If you're on fire to say those three little words, this clever candle set will do the talking for you. The unmistakable message of "I Love You" is spelled out in three separate, sensually-scented candle canisters, filled with long-burning, 100% soy wax.

Heart measuring spoons - $44.99
A dash of humor, a pinch of kindness, a spoonful of fun and a heap of happiness. These spoons will provide a good measure of love in any recipe.

Assorted hand-dipped strawberries - $39.99
These incredible, mouthwatering fruits are sure to have the crowds oohing and ahhing. Each succulent strawberry is artfully hand-dipped then coated in goodies for a unique flavor combination in every bite.

Kama sutra treasure trove kit - $39.95
In a word: yum! This sensual kit invites a tasty twist on romance. Includes edible Honey Dust Body Powder complete with feather applicator, warming Oil of Love and tingly Pleasure Balm to arouse and enhance the senses.

Chocoholics body frosting - $29.95
If subtle is what you want, keep looking. But if you're seeking something sinful, this is it. Includes a paint brush and body frosting in three delicious flavors: Wild Cherry Chocolate, Chocolate and Espresso Dream Chocolate. Set of three jars is packaged in a wooden crate and tied with a red ribbon.

Speak Love, Make Love romantic game - $24.95
It's one thing to talk the talk. But can they play the game? Give those communication skills a higher purpose with this board game. This unique two-sided board allows couples to play a romantic game of giving and receiving that artfully melds thought and feeling with sensual pleasure. And while it's all fun and games, "Speak Love, Make Love" is also designed to foster better communication.

Holiday Gifts for Foodies

2008-12-09T01:23:43Z

From SeductionMeals.com

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It's that time of year again and shopping for your cherished foodie lover shouldn't be a task. Here are some delicious ideas that will do the trick. Seductive, affordable, and ready for delivery. Happy Shopping, Terry

Vosges Haute Chocolate: Couture Cocoa Gift Box - $55
A signature line of Couture Cocoas, packaged in a rich purple gift set box and tied with a grosgrain ribbon.

Saks 5th Avenue: Wine Enthusiast: Wine Master 2008 - $40
Pocket-size electronic talking wine master features a sleek, slim design, easy control panel and over 10,000 wine and spirit reviews, ratings and suggested retail prices.

Victoria Taylor Gourmet: Australian Flake Sea Salt 4-Pack - $48.20
An all time favorite, this salt is a beautiful light pink color and has a delicate texture that comes from the fluffy crystals that are reminiscent of snowflakes. The taste is clean and light. Taste great on mozzarella tomato salad and seafood or meat dishes.

Marx Foods: Dried Wild Mushroom Mix - $51
A wild mix of the most delicious Pacific Northwest mushrooms: wild morel, lobster, chanterelle, porcini and black trumpet mushrooms. All of the wild mushrooms are sustainably hand-foraged in the pristine mountains of the Pacific Northwest. Many chefs use the blend for stocks, sauces and stews.

Crate & Barrel: Carlos Margarita Glasses - $3 per glass
The thoroughly modern margarita. Surprising proportions and a chunky pedestal refresh the classic. Great for dessert service, too.

Crate & Barrel: Margarita Rimming Salt -$7
A combination like no other, this sensational seasoning mixes coarse salt and the kick of natural citrus. Our margarita salt is the perfect tangy blend for the ultimate in cocktail refreshment.

Crate & Barrel: Midnight Bar Mixes - $10 - $13 per bottle
Nightlife impresario Rande Gerber gave us the exclusive on launching his signature Midnight Bar Collection. Premium natural ingredients make it easy to shake or stir up a batch of Whiskey Bar's most popular libations: Lemon Drop, Bloody Mary, Apple Martini, Mojito, Cosmopolitan, Margarita and Pomegranate Martini. You add the alcohol and ice for sublime cocktail-lounge results.

Saks 5th Avenue: Sweet Spice Kit - $42
Easy-to-use pre-measured packets of organic spices essential for making sweets or chai, including allspice, anise seed, cardamom, korintje cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. There are other variation on the Spice Kit if you are all set with Sweetness.

Crate & Barrel: Tupelo Honey Spoons - $10
Stir the sweet, nutritious goodness of Tupelo honey into your tea or other hot beverage with these hand-made lollipop "spoons."

Chocolat Moderne: Exotic Hot Chocolate: Come to the Cocoa Casbah - $18
With a choice of aromas spanning the Mediterranean and Orient, you'll be whisked away in new directions of hot chocolate enjoyment.

Red Envelope: Hand Dipped Chocolate Strawberries - $39.95
These incredible, mouthwatering fruits are sure to have the crowds oohing and ahhing. Each succulent strawberry is artfully hand-dipped then coated in goodies for a unique flavor combination in every bite. 12 assorted strawberries.

Intentional Chocolate; Chocolate Caramel - $16
English caramel covered with pure Hawaiian dark chocolate infused with the spiritual energy of experienced meditators, personally trained with the Dalai Lama. Call it a thought, a prayer, or a blessing, intention is the expression of purpose and the direction of source energy within all of us. Six scrumptious squares of English caramel and Hawaiian chocolate delight make a meaningful -- and much appreciated gift.

A French Kiss and Crab Frittata

2008-12-06T22:16:11Z

From SeductionMeals.com
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What better way to celebrate the weekend then starting it with a special treat like breakfast in bed. And how enticing would a luscious Crab Frittata served with a French Kiss be? Why not test it out this weekend? ]]>
The French Kiss
Recipe courtesy of French Cinema: Chefs Gayle Pirie and John Clark

Ingredients:

2 oz. Grey Goose vodka
0.5 oz cold Lillet
cold champagne
orange rind

Preparation:
1. Pour 2 oz. of Grey Goose vodka in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. In a chilled cocktail glass, pour a 1/2 oz. of cold Lillet
3. Strain vodka into cocktail glass and top with cold champagne
4. Rub the rim of the glass with an orange rind and garnish with the twist

Dungeness Crab Frittata
Serves 2
recipe by French Cinema: Chefs Gayle Pirie & John Clark

Ingredients:

1 T butter or olive oil
¼ cup pre-roasted potatoes
¼ cup picked Dungeness crab
3 T fresh ricotta
salt to taste
3 whole eggs
1 T chopped chives

Preparation:
1. Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2. Over medium heat melt the butter or olive oil in an oven-proof nonstick skillet. (The pan should measure about 9 or 10 inches in diameter.)
3. Saute the potatoes for 1 minute
4. Beat the eggs in a bowl, season lightly with salt, and add to the pan.
5. Turn the heat to low, stir in the crab meat, and ricotta.
6. Place in oven on middle rack and cook for 6-7 minutes or until the frittata has gently risen.
7. The frittata should be gently cooked throughout, but not dry.
8. Allow the frittata to rest for 1 minute, and then carefully slide it onto a warm plate.
9. Garnish with chopped chives.

French Cinema features a California / Mediterranean influenced menu and full oyster bar and has earned three stars from The San Francisco Chronicle and nine consecutive "Top 100" rankings. Dinner is served nightly as well as weekend brunch both Saturday and Sunday. Foreign and independent films are screened in our covered outdoor courtyard.

Aphrodisiacs: Caviar & Seduction

2008-12-06T22:10:20Z

By SeductionMeals.com
Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two.

Sharing caviar is a ceremonious affair. Set in a glass placed out over a bed of crushed ice, a pearl spoon scoops out a small portion. Together you assemble individual bite sized morsels, slowly savoring each and every bite. Typically served with champagne, vodka or wine, eating caviar is an incredibly sexy experience. And the good news; it does not have to cost a fortune.

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While caviar does not require adornment, it can be served with a variety of garnishes such as toast points, unsalted crackers, or blinis (small flat pancakes), chopped hard-boiled eggs, crème fraîche, sour cream, minced onions, and tiny new white potatoes. For my Seduction Meal treat, I served caviar with toast points, crème fraîche, snipped chives and shots of Stolychinia Vodka. Enjoy; as this is truly an affordable, indulgent experience.

Caviar should be always be served using a pearl or glass spoon, or even plastic utensils. Metals such as silver or stainless steel will impart a metallic taste.

There are many recipes that elevate to another level when adding caviar as one of the ingredients, such as my grilled lobster served over crab ravioli with cream sauce--try topping this with a delicate black caviar. Or for a special breakfast in bed try salmon caviar rolls.

Naughty & Nice Holiday Gifts

2008-12-06T22:02:26Z

From SeductionMeals.com
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We all have our special moments of being naughty & nice--let's celebrate both with fun gift idea to keep the balance of life going. Happy Holidays, Terry

Naughty: Kama Sutra Loving Oils Collection Set - $29.95
Delight your lover with a variety of irresistible sensations. Each of these water-based treats reveals a gentle scent and a warming glow. The set contains sampler sizes of: The Original, Chocolate Mint, Cherry Almond, Raspberry Kiss and Vanilla Crème. Invite a lover's lips to name them all.

Nice: Temecula Olive Oil Sampler - $23.99
A tremendous sampler pack of handcrafted olive oils. Olivum, a rich buttery blend of several varietals is the perfect enhancement to any recipe instead of vegetable oils or butter. Citrus Reserve will enhance your salads, poultry, seafood or baking with the essence of Blood oranges. Roasted Garlic Reserve is a must-have for that pasta or grilled meat lover.

Naughty: Sexy Slang - $22.45
The Sexy Slang board game is an adult party game that mixes charades & drawings with a naughty twist.

Nice: Foodie Fight, $19
Calling all food lovers! This addictive trivia game allows players to strut their culinary stuff and prove who is the smartest foodie of them all. With over 1,000 questions on topics ranging from culinary science and celebrity chefs to food history and exotic cuisine, each player is bound to get a full serving of food knowledge. But think fast, because the first player or team to fill in their game board wins!

Naughty: Jacques Torres, Wicket Hot Chocolate - $18
Feeling daring?Try the Wicked Hot Chocolate that features allspice, cinnamon, ground, sweet ancho chili peppers, and smoked, ground chipotle chili peppers!

Nice: Chocolat Modern, Hot Chocolates - $18
With a choice of aromas spanning the Mediterranean and Orient, you'll be whisked away in new directions of hot chocolate enjoyment.

Naughty: Will Cook for Sex - $16.50
Women were once taught that the way to a man's heart was through his stomach. In reality, fewer women cook, or really want to. Making reservations or ordering in has become one of the multiminded abilities of today's more progressive woman. Therein is the problem. Men must learn to navigate their way around the kitchens, galleys and cucinas of the world. In fact, to every man's advantage, the women can be very generous to men who know a spoon from a spatula. All men need is some beautiful inspiration and a few words of simple instruction from Rocky Fino. Step-by-step pictorials include menus and recipes for important occasions like The Date, The Stacked Deck, The Closer, the Morning After and The Weekend Pass.

Nice: Mod Mex: Cooking Vibrant Fiesta Flavors at Home - $16.50
One of my favorite cookbooks. From the kitchens at Dos Caminos on Park Avenue, SoHo, and Midtown, Linquist satisfies more than 1,000 palates each day. Highlighting regions from the Yucatan to Oaxaca, chef Scott Linquist present more than 125 fresh, inviting, and easy-to-prepare Mexican dishes ranging from Quinoa-Watermelon Salad with Arugula and Baja-Style Mahi-Mahi Tacos to Tuna Ceviche with Mango-Serrano Chile Salsa and Chocolate Layer Cake with Morita Chile-Scented Chocolate Mousse.

Naughty: Kama Sutra Chocolate Body Paint Set - $34.21
For those who think chocolate is better than sex, here's a way to indulge in your two favorite passions at once. Open the lid of this beautiful box and behold three generous jars of delicious chocolate body paints. Brush this incredibly rich treat onto someone you love to love, then create a delicious masterpiece on any part of the body. Set contains: 2 oz Dark body paint 2 oz Milk body paint 2 oz White chocolate body paint Body paintbrush to create your masterpiece.

Nice: Chocolate Firecracker Bar Set - $18
Get fired up with Chuao's latest sensation--the Firecracker Candy Bar made with caramel fudge, chipotle, salt & popping candy! Dark chocolate bar with chipotle, salt and popping candy. Comes in packages of three bars.

Naughty: Cosmo's Steamy Sex Games (Cards)- $9.95
All Sorts of Naughty Ways to Have Fun with Your Lover. Get in the game with this carnal collection of sexy couple activities from the experts in bedroom fun. Ranging from Sexy Scavenger Hunt to Dirty Truth or Dare, these games are all printed on clever tear-out cards and are sure to fire up your love life. For each erotic diversion, players will find instructions on the props they'll need, the rules of the game--and the passion payoff. It's simple to pull out the cards for the games that sound the most irresistible, take them bedside, and let the fun begin.

Nice: The Sweet Spot - $21.27
Finding a compilation of Asian-inspired desserts isn't always an easy task, as baking sections tend to be chockfull of Italian and French influenced titles. The good news is Ong (owner of NYC's P*ong) presents more than 100 accessible, top-notch recipes inspired from such countries as Japan (Honey Castella, or kasutera), China (Peanut Turnovers) and India (Pistachio Rose Thumbprint Cookies). Popular desserts from New York's famed Spice Market (where Ong has consulted)-- Chocolate and Vietnamese Coffee Tart and Jasmine Rice Pudding--lend themselves to frequent repetition.

Holiday Gifts for Him

2008-12-06T21:58:07Z

From SeductionMeals.com
Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two.

Hot music, fun gadgets, and seductive gourmet items; he will relish spending more time with you as you provide him with the tools to enjoy a romantic soiree together. Happy Holidays!

Sexy Tunes: Hotel Costes Vol 3 - $24
Sexy hot tunes, Hotel Costes features soulful lounge music as you enjoy your shared romantic Seduction Meal.

Vosges Haute Chocolate: Hip Hop Truffle Collection - $29
9 piece white chocolate truffles with Krug® Champagne and edible gold leaf. This decadent truffle combines white chocolate, Krug ® Champagne and gold leaf--echoing rap's transition from music to a culture of "bling" popularized in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Saks 5th Avenue: The Wine Enthusiast - $40
If your man loves wine, this pocket-size electronic talking wine master is the perfect gift. It features a sleek, slim design, easy control panel and over 10,000 wine and spirit reviews, ratings and suggested retail prices.

Victoria Taylor Gourmet: The Tail Gate Party Pack - $19.95
Inspired by sports fans and grill masters across America, Victoria Gourmet introduces The Tailgating Party Pack. Whether you're grilling in the backyard or tailgating before the big game, these blends will add flavor and excitement to your foods. The most delicious barbecued steak, Southwestern spicy chili, Cajun jambalaya or fresh onion and herb dip await you as our most macho blends deliver a culinary experience bursting with robust taste. Anyone who enjoys sporting events and the festivities surrounding them will look for excuses to incorporate these seasoning blends in the foods they prepare.

Pottery Barn: Portable BBQ Grill - $39
Enjoying a summer barbeque on the beach just got easier than ever. Our lightweight stainless steel bucket-shaped charcoal grill has convenient handles and feet that fold away for easy storage. Must rest on a stable surface when in use.

Sexy Tunes: John Coltrane - Love Supreme - $11
This compilation from several Coltrane albums on Prestige from the 1950's is comprised of nine tracks, all seductive and slow. Need we say more?

Pottery Barn: Cocktail Shaker -$39
Mix drinks with the confidence of a pro. A quick twist of the lid on this shaker reveals the recipes for 15 cocktails, with foolproof measuring guides for perfect results. Recipes include time-honored classics like Whiskey Sour, Side Car and Old Fashioned, as well as such esoteric enticements as Orange Blossom, Clover Club and Palm Beach. Made of 18/8 stainless steel.

Red Envelope: Wine Tasting Party - $59.95
Wine buff or wine bluff, it's up to you. Slip wine bottles into numbered wine bags. After tasting each wine, guests take a guess. Even if no one correctly identifies the wine, engaging conversation is guaranteed.

Groovy Tunes: Thievery Corporation: The Mirror Conspiracy - $14
Washington, D.C.'s Thievery Corporation purvey a very mellow, deliberately international mixture of sounds that might be called "lounge music"--not in the kitschy sense, but in the sense of a laid-back local bar

Vosges Haute Chocolate: Fire Red Pecans - $26
Spice it up with Red Fire Pecans: Georgian and New Mexican pecans + ancho chillies + organic sugar + dark cocoa *Mild Piquancy.

Red Envelope: Monogrammed Grand Pilsner Beer Glasses - $49.95
Like wine, beer should be served in a glass designed to enhance its particular flavor and aroma. Our classic Pilsner glass has a tapered shape that brings out the best in the brew. This comprehensive kit will help identify wine tastes and aromas like a true connoisseur! Develop an extensive wine vocabulary and be well-educated when selecting wines at restaurants and stores.

Seared Scallops With Corn Succatosh

2008-10-23T01:02:54Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com
Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two.

A Seduction Meal does not have to be a full blown gourmet feast nor does it have to cost a lot of money. The scallop recipe below is the perfect example. Seared scallops that are basted with a thyme butter sauce, served over a bed of savory vegetables sauteed in butter, topped with a simple, flavorable jus. This scallop dish can be served as an appetizer or a main dish and is sure to please.

The secret to this dish is to not to overcook the scallops or they will become tough. As soon as they turn opaque and white they are done. As with all seafood, buy fresh. Scallops have a distinct, sweet odor when they are fresh. Between taste, quality ingredients, texture, and flavors the simplicity of a dish will shine on its own.

]]> Seared Sea Scallops with Corn Succotash and Scallop Jus
Recipe courtesy of MarxFoods.com

For the Jus

2 whole scallops diced (or scallop muscle scrap)
½ onion, diced
1 carrot, diced
1 leek, diced
½ cup white wine
1 ½ cup white chicken stock
olive oil
1 Tablespoon of butter

1. Heat sauté pan over medium heatdd olive oil, then the onion - cook until transparent
2. Add carrot - cook until soft
3. Add leek - cook until soft
4. Add wine - cook until almost evaporated
5. Add stock and reduce by ½
6. Top with butter
7. Strain and season, discard vegetables

Succotash

6 ears of corn - cut off the cob
1 red pepper - small dice with ribs removed
1 summer squash - small dice
1 zucchini - small dice
1 bulb fennel - small dice
4 scallions - sliced into rings
butter
olive oil

1. Heat a sauté pan large enough to accommodate all ingredients
2. Add olive oil when pan is hot followed by fennel and cook to transparent
3. Add zucchini, squash, and red pepper - cook until slightly soft
4. Add corn, scallions and cook for 2 minutes
5. Add butter and season

Scallops

For superior flavor, look for dry-packed scallops, which are not packed in a solution. Ask your grocer or seafood shop how how the scallops were shipped and try to get #2 dry packed scallops.

Dry packed scallops - muscles removed, rinsed and patted dry
peanut oil
1 sprig thyme
1 Tablespoon of butter

1. Heat sauté pan over medium high heat, add peanut oil when hot
2. Season scallops with salt on both sides
3. Add scallops to pan ensuring not to crowd pan as this will prevent a proper sear
4.Cook scallops until well browned
5.Flip and turn heat to medium
6. Add butter and thyme, baste scallops for additional minute
7. Remove from heat and plate immediately

Plating the Dish

Spoon succotash across plate
Place scallops in line on top of succotash
Spoon sauce/jus over the scallops

A Paella Valencia and Sangria Fiesta

2008-10-23T00:45:25Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com

When I think of Spain I think Tapas and Paella--two signature dishes adored by many. Once you try paella you'll fall in love with this famous rice dish; and to top it off, its surprisingly easy to prepare, the recipe below was done in half an hour, which makes this a great choice for a quick seduction meal.

Photo © Terry Dagrosa / Seduction Meals

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There are a few secrets I found to ensure your dish is the best it can be:

1. Use a paella pan. A round shallow pan, called a paellera, with a large cooking surface that allows the rice to spread evenly along the bottom and easily absorb the flavors of the broth and the ingredients set on top. A delicacy of this dish is to discover the caramelized rice at the bottom of the dish. Be sure your stove (or outdoor grill) entirely heats up the bottom of the pan, otherwise you will have to rotate the pan to evenly distribute the heat.

2. Use a medium grain rice, preferably Spanish Calasparra or Bomba rice. If you can't find this rice, Goya has good rice and is easily find in local supermarkets.

3. Create a delicious "sofrito", a well cooked and fragrant sauce the serves as the foundation of flavor. Typically this is made with sauteed tomatoes, garlic, paprika and sometimes peppers.

4. If you can, get hold of some saffron. I know its expensive but its worth it. In addition to the sofrito, the saffron is an important part of the color and flavor of your paella. If you can't find saffron, don't worry, you can find medium grain rice that already has saffron in it, but you will sacrifice some flavor.

Paella Recipe
Serves 6

1/3 cup olive oil
1 red bell pepper
1 orange pepper
4 Tbs garlic, chopped
1 whole chicken breast bone in, cut in 4 parts
2 thighs, each cut into 2 parts
salt and pepper
2 cups Calasparra rice, or other medium grain rice
1/2 tsp saffron threads
1/4 lb of cooking chorizo, in 1/4 inch slices*
2 cups chicken stock
2 cups shellfish stock (I used clam juice)
1 tsp parsley, chopped
6-8 pieces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
About 10 clams and 10 mussels, scrubbed

* I couldn't find cooking chorizo, that is the only reason it is not shown in the photo, I love the flavor this imparts on this dish, so be sure to include it..

garnish
Chives, snipped with scissors
Lemon wedges

Preparing the Meal
When cooking paella, there is no need to use the cover of the pan. Most pans do not come with covers for this very reason.

Preheat a 15" paella pan at high heat for 1 minute. Add olive oil, 1/2 of the garlic, and sliced peppers. Salt and pepper the chicken and add chicken pieces, frying over high heat until golden. Remove to a platter. Add the chorizo and stir fry about 10 minutes. Stir in the rice and half of the saffron for about 2 minutes. Place the chicken back in the pan. Add the chicken and shellfish stock and simmer.

In a separate bowl or mortar, mix the remaining garlic and saffron, parsley, a tsp of water, and a dash of salt (I prefer sea salt) - mix well. Add the mixture to the pan and place the seafood in the pan. Mussels and Clams first, then shrimp on top. At this point you no longer need to stir the ingredients. Add salt and pepper and cook for 3-10 minutes or until the shrimp is a nice pink color.

plating the dish
Remove some of the seafood and chicken pieces to get to the rice. Place 1 cup of the tasty rice on each plate. Arrange chicken and seafood on top of the rice, and add a few pieces of the spicy sausage on top. Add the colorful pieces of pepper all around and garnish with chives (or chopped parsley) and a wedge of lemon. Serve immediately with a tall glass of

Red Sangria
Serves 6

1 bottle, about 3 cups, of dry red wine
1 orange, sliced in wheels
1 lemon, sliced in wheels
2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 cup caster sugar
1/2 cup brandy

garnish:
ice to serve
sliced lime wheels, cut 1" slice, and slip the lime over the glasses edge

Place the orange, lime and lemon slices in a glass pitcher. Add the lime juice, orange juice and caster sugar, stir with a wooden spoon to mix all ingredients. Add the red wine and brandy, stir. Chill in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours letting all of the flavors blend and settle in. Just before serving add ice cubes to the pitcher, stir the sangria and serve

Hot Tip:
With the tag line: The Best of Spain in America; LaTeinda.com is a good resource for all you paella needs..

Spaghetti Carbonara with Parsley and Sun Dried Tomatoes

2008-10-23T00:38:17Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com
Sign Up for the Seduction Meals Newsletter for more tips on recipes, drinks, hot music, and everything you need for creating romantic meals for two.

A hearty meal for a cold winter's night, Spaghetti Carbonara is 100% comfort food. And best of all, it can be made in 1/2 hour. I like to serve this with a tomato basil bruschetta and a bottle of chilled white burgundy like Domaine Vocoret 2006 Chablis. I typically do not add salt to this dish as the pancetta is salty. One of the best things about this delicious dish--Including the wine and bruschetta, this Seduction Meal is less than $40 for two.

Photo © Terry Dagrosa / Seduction Meals

]]> Spaghetti Carbonara with Parsley and Sun Dried Tomatoes
serves two

Ingredients:

1/2 box of spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
5 oz pancetta (Italian bacon), cut into thick rounds and cut again in 1/3" pieces
1 large garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup of dry white wine
1 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
1/4 cup of heavy cream
1 egg yolk
1/8 cup of finely chopped flat leaf parsley
1/4 cup of sun dried tomatoes, finely chopped or cut in julienne strips
fresh cracked pepper to taste
Garnish with finely chopped parsley and a few julienne strips of sun-dried tomatos
(optional) red pepper flakes

1. Getting Started: Measure and prepare all ingredients listed above and place in small bowls so its easy to swiftly make the pasta dish.

2. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water as per the directions on the box. Cook al dente.

3. At the same time, Pour olive oil in a small skilled over medium heat, when hot add pancetta. Cook for about 5 minutes until bacon starts to slightly brown. Add minced garlic and stir, cook for about 3 minutes. Pour in white wine and cook until liquid reduces to half about 5 minutes. Remove skillet from heat.

4. In a bowl, mix together the cheese, heavy cream and egg yolk.

5. Drain spaghetti in a colander. Place the spaghetti back in the same pot it cooked in over low heat. Add the cheese, cream, egg mixture tossing to mix all ingredients together. Serve immediately. If the pasta is too dry, you can add a bit more cream. If there is too much liquid you can add a little more grated cheese.

In the Heat of the Night...A Mojito for Two

2008-10-23T00:36:40Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com

In the heat of night spice up your moment of seduction with a rum-based romantic rendezvous. You can start by toasting with two tall glasses of Mojitos. Next serve up a meal of jazzy mango chicken wings, and your favorite side dish. End the night with a light, enticing bowl of lemon sorbet, topped with a mint sprig.

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Cuba is the birthplace of the Mojito, although the exact origin of this classic cocktail is the subject of debate. One story traces the Mojito to the 16th century when the cocktail was known as "El Draque," in honor of the English Explorer and Trader Sir Francis Drake. If this is indeed true, the Mojito could be considered as the world's first cocktail. The Mojito was made with "tafia," a primitive predecessor of rum, with the other ingredients used to hide the harsh taste. The drink improved substantially in the 19th century, with the introduction of copper stills and the aging process that led to the modern form of rum. Some insist the Mojito's name comes from mojo, a Cuban seasoning made from lime and used to flavor dishes. Perhaps as a reference to its lime ingredient, the drink became known as the cocktail with 'a little mojo' - in Spanish, 'mojito'. (source: wikipedia)

mojito
recipe for 1 mojito

1 1/2 oz. Mount Gay Rum Eclipse Silver
12 fresh spearmint leaves
1/2 lime
2 tbsp. simple syrup (or 4 tsp. sugar)
Top off with club soda
Garnish: lime wedge and sprig of mint

Muddle mint leaves and lime in tall glass. Cover with simple syrup and fill glass with ice; add Rum and club soda; stir well. Garnish glass with lime wedge and sprigs of mint.

Note: Simple syrup is made by stirring granulated sugar into hot water in a sauce pan until the sugar is dissolved and then cooling the solution. Generally, a ratio of two parts sugar to one part water is used.

Linguini alle Vongole

2008-10-10T02:35:21Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com

For a truly seductive, lighter pasta meal try Linguine alle vongole; an Italian dish made with fresh clams, parsley, garlic, white wine and butter. To start, serve up a simple salad like the radicchio salad with thinly sliced parmesean cheese slices.. Next serve up this great linguine dish with a bottle of chilled white wine and hot crusty bread and the night is yours.

Photos © Terry Dagrosa / Seduction Meals

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1/4 cup extra olive oil
4 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
Medium size head of radicchio lettuce
Fresh Parmesean cheese, long thin slices

1. Tear the radicchio in separate leaves. Place in a salad spinner filled with ice cold water--add some ice cubes if your water isn't ice cold. Let stand for a 5-10 minutes. Drain. Set aside. Whisk together the olive oil and vinegar.

Plate the Dish

1. Place the salad on each plate.
2. Using a cheese slicer to get very thin slices, carve long thin slices from the brick of cheese. Arrange slices over the lettuce.
3. Drizzle with salad dressing, salt and pepper to taste and serve.

Linguine alle Vongole
serves 4

4 Tbsp olive oil
1lb fresh minced clams
12 oz clam juice
2 dozen cockles (very small clams)
1 1/2 little neck clams
1 head of garlic, finely chopped
1 medium white onion, finely chopped
1 cup white wine
1/2 stick sweet butter
1 Tbsp finely chopped jalapeno
2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley
1 box linguine
Salt and Pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Simmer the onions and garlic in olive oil in a skillet over low heat (you do not want to brown them, only soften). When soft, add minced clams.

2. Continue to cook over low heat for about 20 minutes.

3. Add remaining liquid (wine and clam juice), turn heat up to medium, cooking until liquid just begins to boil, about ten minutes. Remove from heat and cover.

4. Cook pasta as per directions being sure to remove when al dente. Strain the pasta and place in a large bowl, add 1/2 stick of butter and toss. Salt and pepper to taste.

5. Steam cockles and little necks clams until shells just open. Remove from heat, set aside

Plating the dish
1. Heat up the minced clam juice.
2. Place linguine in large serving bowl. Arrange littlenecks and cockles over the pasta and add minced clam mixture over the pasta and make sure its hot
3. Sprinkle red jalapeno (to taste), salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with the minced parsley..
4. Serve with your favorite wine, and toss the pasta at the table for maximum effect

Mussels in Curry Cream Sauce

2008-10-10T02:26:30Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com

Mussels and French fries, known as Moule Frite, is a quintessential comfort food. This dish is the perfect seduction meal when you need to prepare a simple, luscious meal in 30 minutes.

The recipe below is for a basic curry cream sauce. For a bit more flavor I like adding a pinch or two of saffron for a curry saffron cream sauce. Or, there are many Thai variations that include the added richness of coconut milk, spices, and ginger. Either way, this is a meal that easily falls under the "quickie" category and will have you in and out of the kitchen in no time, unless you choose to also make home-made fries to accompany this dish. If I am in a rush, I go to my corner bistro and order fries to go.

mussels in curry cream sauce for two

2 Tb butter
2 shallots, minced
2 cloves of garlic, smashed
1 pinch of cayenne pepper
2 Tb lemon grass, finely chopped
2 Tb curry powder
1 cup of white wine
1 cup of cream
2 lbs mussels, cleaned
1 loaf French bread

to clean the mussels
I think its best to use a pot with a colander or a salad spinner, so you can easily lift the colander leaving any sand or grit behind.Run mussels under cold water in the colander. Place the colander in a pot, fill with cold water and let soak for 15 minutes. Lift the colander out of the pot and rinse again. Next be sure to remove the beards--you do this by pulling out the hair-like strands between the shells of a mussel. If you find any shells that are open, discard them.

Add butter to a large heavy skillet over medium high heat. Saute shallots for 2 minutes. Lower heat to medium. Add garlic, pepper, curry and lemon grass. Stir until curry is blended in and cook for about 5 minutes. Add wine and cream. Turn heat up and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium high and add mussels. Cover and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until all shells open up. Stir mussels in the sauce. Discard any mussels that did not open.

plating the dish

Divide the mussels among two bowls. Spoon the luscious curry sauce over the mussels. Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up this delicious sauce. White wine or beer go well with this dish. Tip: One of the easiest ways to eat the mussels is to take a shell and use it as "pinchers" to remove the mussel from another shell and bring it to your mouth.

]]> mussels in curry cream sauce for two

2 Tb butter
2 shallots, minced
2 cloves of garlic, smashed
1 pinch of cayenne pepper
2 Tb lemon grass, finely chopped
2 Tb curry powder
1 cup of white wine
1 cup of cream
2 lbs mussels, cleaned
1 loaf French bread

to clean the mussels
I think its best to use a pot with a colander or a salad spinner, so you can easily lift the colander leaving any sand or grit behind.Run mussels under cold water in the colander. Place the colander in a pot, fill with cold water and let soak for 15 minutes. Lift the colander out of the pot and rinse again. Next be sure to remove the beards--you do this by pulling out the hair-like strands between the shells of a mussel. If you find any shells that are open, discard them.

Add butter to a large heavy skillet over medium high heat. Saute shallots for 2 minutes. Lower heat to medium. Add garlic, pepper, curry and lemon grass. Stir until curry is blended in and cook for about 5 minutes. Add wine and cream. Turn heat up and bring to boil. Reduce heat to medium high and add mussels. Cover and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until all shells open up. Stir mussels in the sauce. Discard any mussels that did not open.

plating the dish

Divide the mussels among two bowls. Spoon the luscious curry sauce over the mussels. Serve with warm crusty bread to soak up this delicious sauce. White wine or beer go well with this dish. Tip: One of the easiest ways to eat the mussels is to take a shell and use it as "pinchers" to remove the mussel from another shell and bring it to your mouth.

Mango Chicken Wings and a Sexy Rum Cocktail for 2

2008-10-10T02:21:24Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com

We all know how sexy it is to serve up a finger-licking dish for two and this recipe for mango chicken wings is no exception. Pair this delicious treat with a chilled rum cocktail like the Bajan Star Shine below, and you are set for a fun evening appetizer, a midnight snack (if you have the foresight to marinate earlier in the day), or late afternoon delight.

]]> mango chicken wings
recipe courtesy of Mount Gay Rum

note: leave time to marinate the chicken overnight, or at least 4 hours

10-12 chicken wings
jerk seasoning
fresh mango or pulp
½ cup Mount Gay Eclipse Rum

1. Marinate chicken in jerk seasoning and mango pulp, rum, salt and pepper overnight. Pre-heat oven to 350 F and bake for 25-30 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and mango slices.

bajan star shine

Ingredients for one drink:

1 oz Mount Gay Eclipse Silver Rum
2 Slices of Star Fruit cut in fours
1 tsp of Grapefruit Marmalade
1 oz Guava Nectar
1/2 oz Simple Syrup*
Juice of one key lime or one quarter ounce of bottled key lime juice

1. In mixing glass, muddle the quarters of Star fruit well. Add remaining ingredients and ice. Shake vigorously, then strain into chilled cocktail glass or coupe filled with cracked ice. Garnish with slice of Star Fruit.

*Simple syrup is made by stirring granulated sugar into hot water in a sauce pan until the sugar is dissolved and then cooling the solution. Generally, a ratio of two parts sugar to one part water is used.

Cooking with Aphrodisiacs: Basil

2008-10-10T02:08:09Z

By Terry Dagrosa, SeductionMeals.com

Looking for an easy way to stir up flames of desire? Try cooking with aphrodisiacs. Each month we'll explore a new aphrodisiac to see which works best for you and your partner. We start with basil and a simple pasta dish: penne with basil, tomato and ricotta. And to turn up the heat, let's add another aphrodisiac--a pinch of red hot pepper flakes.

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penne with basil, tomato and ricotta
serves 4

1 box of your favorite penne pasta
3 tbsp of olive oil
1 tsp oregano
1/8 cup of shredded fresh basil
1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
salt and pepper to taste

1/8 cup of olive oil
1 pint of cherry tomatoes left whole
3 cloves of garlic, crushed

small brick of ricotta cheese, sliced and crumbled
red pepper flakes

1. Cook pasta al dente, according to directions on the package. Drain when done and place in a large bowl. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil, oregano, Parmesan cheese,and salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to add too much salt as the cheese can be salty. Tip: Always use fresh Parmesan, nothing in a can--you want to use a brick and grate it just before using..

2. Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet making sure there is enough to cover the bottom. If your skillet is exceptionally large you may need a little more oil. When hot, add the cherry tomatoes and saute for a minute or two. Add the garlic over the tomatoes and cook for another minute. Carefully stir the tomatoes so garlic is mixed in to the oil. In another minute or two, when the tomato skin start to wrinkle, they are almost done--you want to keep them in long enough so the skin starts to slightly char. If you need to, add a bit more olive oil to the pan (you want about 1/8 cup of garlic infused oil to add to the pasta).

3. Remove the tomatoes from the heat. And pour tomatoes/olive oil over the pasta, gently tossing ingredients together.

4. Place the pasta on two plates. Top with the remaining chopped basil, a dash of red pepper flakes, and some fresh grated parmesan cheese.

5. Bring you plates to a table