Valentine's Day: A Menu of Aphrodisiacs

Domaso Trattoria Moderna

Submitted by Anita on July 16, 2010 - 10:16pm

Venue Address: 

1121 North 19th Street

Arlington, VA 22209

United States

See map: Google Maps

www.domasotrattoria.com

This Valentine's Day, Chef Paul is preparing what is perhaps his most "amorous" menu of all time. It's chock full of ingredients that are sure to move you and someone special from "spark" to "flame."

Avocado
The Aztecs called the avocado tree "Ahuacatl."
(You'll need to look up why that is for yourself, though.)
tuna tartare, pine nuts, pomegranate syrup and seeds, avocado mousse

Vanilla
Lore has it that Xanat, the daughter of the Mexican fertility goddess, loved a Totonac youth. Unable to marry him due to her divine nature, she transformed herself into a plant that would provide pleasure and happiness.
pan seared sea scallop, celery root puree, saffron vanilla sauce, mache

Arugula
Arugula, or "rocket" seed, has been documented as an aphrodisiac since the 1st century.
arugula and endive salad, bleu cheese "panna cotta," balsamic glazed walnuts, spice poached pear

Chicory
A common aphrodisiac also used against poisoning. grilled radicchio pasta, balsamic cream, walnuts, micro cress, pancetta, penne

Pine Nut
Containing a high level of zinc, pine nuts have been used to increase libido since medieval times.
sundried tomato, arugula pesto, pine nuts, chicken, olives, spaghetti

Fig
A fig, broken open, is thought to be a symbolic aphrodisiac.
roasted duck breast, fig port wine reduction, cipollini, braised cabbage

Almond
A symbol of fertility throughout the ages, it is extra potent to females.
lake trout, fingerling potatoes, spinach, almond caper sauce, salsa verde

Broccoli Rabe
The ground seeds of various plants in the brassica family were believed to increase virility.
filet of beef, duck fat roasted potatoes, rabe, cabernet jus, roasted garlic aioli

Chocolate
The Aztecs referred to chocolate as “nourishment of the Gods.”
chocolate silk tart, white and dark Chocolate sauces, azteca gelato

Honey
Lovers on their “Honeymoon” drink mead (fermented honey drink) to “sweeten” the marriage.
fresh berry tart, lemon honey and raspberry sauces, honey gelato

This is a prix fixe menu; $60 a person, plus tax and gratuity. This special evening will sell out, so please reserve early to avoid disappointment.

Please call 703.351.1211 for dining reservations or assistance or visit our website for information.