Spice up love: quick Valentine’s Day recipes for last-minute planners
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the pressure to create the perfect romantic evening can leave many scrambling for ideas. #
But for those who find themselves without a plan, there's no need for panic!
Culinary expert Wayne Blake, cluster general manager for ANEW Hotels & Resorts, offers below a curated selection of quick and delectable recipes that are sure to dazzle your loved one.
This year, why not venture into bold, fiery flavours that will not only satisfy the palate but also ignite the passion?
With these stunning dishes, even the most last-minute planners can create a memorable and romantic Valentine’s celebration.
Embrace the bold flavours and indulge your taste buds - this culinary journey is a perfect way to express your love!
Breakfast: a fiery start to your day
Kick off the festivities with a spicy breakfast curry bowl. Begin by sautéing one finely chopped onion, along with two minced garlic cloves and one finely chopped green chilli.
Season with ¼ teaspoon of turmeric and garam masala, cooking until the onion is translucent. Pour in ¼ cup of coconut milk for a creamy touch, then stir in one cup of cooked quinoa, ensuring it's well coated.
Layer the spiced quinoa in a bowl, topping it with your choice of eggs, sautéed mushrooms, and a variety of vegetables, finishing it off with a dash of chilli sauce.
Remember, moderation is key - avoid overwhelming the dish with spices, and consider adding a cup of sautéed baby spinach for an extra burst of flavour.
For a vegetarian twist, try the chilli pancake stack. Incorporate one to two finely chopped fresh jalapeños and a teaspoon of smoked paprika into your pancake batter.
Once cooked, stack them up with layers of homemade chilli garlic butter - a delightful mix of softened butter, minced garlic, red chilli flakes, and a pinch of salt.
Crown your stack with a fried egg and a drizzle of honey. Adding crispy streaky bacon can enhance the dish's savoury profile, making it a perfect breakfast indulgence.
Lunch: light and vibrant options
As the day progresses, set the mood with a delicious lunch featuring spicy grilled fish tacos with mango salsa.
Prepare a zesty rub using a tablespoon each of olive oil and lime juice, alongside a teaspoon of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Marinate two fish fillets - preferably salmon, kingklip, or hake - for 15 to 30 minutes before grilling them to perfection.
Pair the fish with a refreshing mango salsa made from diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and fresh coriander. Season and chill the salsa before serving with tortillas to create a delightful taco experience.
Another option is the Thai-style spicy grilled cheese.
Combine butter with Thai red curry paste for a unique spread, and coat sourdough bread in the mixture before grilling with layers of cheddar and fresh jalapeños.
Serve with a tangy cucumber salad and a refreshing mint lemonade to balance the heat.
Dessert: a sweet ending with a kick
No meal is complete without dessert, and this Valentine’s Day should feature indulgent treats like chocolate chilli brownies.
Simply add cayenne pepper and a hint of cinnamon to your favourite brownie mix, swirling in dark chocolate and a dash of hot sauce before baking. The combination promises a fudgy surprise with every bite.
For something lighter, why not whip up a chilli mango sorbet sundae? Blend ripe mangoes with lime juice, sugar, and a pinch of red chilli powder, then freeze until solid.
Serve it with honey, finely chopped chillies, and crushed salted peanuts for delightful texture and flavour.