Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. This is the day to celebrate your relationship, so with that said, here are a few tips on how to celebrate.
Since these are hard economic times, you might decide to make a special dinner at home rather than taking them to an expensive restaurant. Put on some music and add a little candlelight to add intimacy. Serve dinner later than usual so you aren’t rushed. Relax and enjoy one another; there is no better way to show how much you care.
Try serving a “signature drink” to compliment your meal. This gives you a chance to impress your loved one with your cocktail skills. Champagne should make an appearance in your creation, as do many of the “love” foods like chocolate and strawberries. Have fun with the cocktails you create with embellishments that fit the mood. Carve fruit into the heart shapes or garnish with chocolate-covered strawberries.
For dessert, try anything with chocolate. Try pairing your chocolate with wine. If you have the right wine to complement the right chocolate it can be a match made in heaven. Whether you are pairing a delicate white chocolate or a lively dark chocolate with wine, there are a few pairing tips to keep in mind.
Tips for Successfully Pairings Wines with Chocolate
Rule number one, the wine should be at least as sweet, if not a touch sweeter, than the chocolate you are serving it with. Otherwise, the taste may quickly veer towards sour.
When pairing wines with chocolate, your best bet is to match lighter, more elegant flavored chocolates with lighter-bodied wines; likewise, the stronger the chocolate, the more full-bodied the wine should be. For example, a bittersweet chocolate tends to pair well with an intense, in-your-face California Zinfandel.
Similar to “formal” wine tasting, if you will be experimenting with several varieties of chocolates, work from light to dark. Start with a more subtle white chocolate and end on a dark or bittersweet chocolate.
If you don’t have time to plan an intimate dinner at home, Savoring Thyme offers you a personal chef service that can take the hassle out of your night. You can also enjoy our “Delicious Sensations” package that includes a three-course meal and a couple’s massage by certified massage therapists while your meal is being prepared.
For more information, reservations and availability, please call us at 661-259-MEAL. Dining parties are booking up fast! Check out our website at www.savoringthymechef.com for pricing and more details.