I'm sure there are plenty of you out there who already have your shopping lists made up for that romantic meal at home with that special someone. This post is not for you. This is for the novice cook, the one who knows deep down that making a special meal for their sweetheart is the most romantic thing they could possibly do. They also know that it'll be worlds cheaper than going out to eat. So, here are a few suggestions:
- First of all, keep it simple. Sure, I know that the tendency is to go for something extravagant, but really, it's the act and effort of cooking that's important. Without getting too sentimental, let me just say that making a meal for someone else is one of the most basic acts of affection. Ten courses or two, it doesn't matter.
- Next, one of the first things my father ever taught me about cooking: Don't try out new dishes on company.
If you've never made coq au vin before, Valentine's dinner probably isn't the best time to start. At the very least,
make something once over the weekend and see if it comes out well.
- Along those same lines, be
prepared. Read your recipes thoroughly, several times. Don't get home from the store on Tuesday afternoon and realize
that the dessert you were planning needs to chill overnight.
- Also, if you plan to do any snuggling
after the meal, you'd better think about what's on your breath. Maybe save the whole heads of roasted garlic for
another night.
- As I said, simple is best, so when you're cooking simply, good ingredients count for a lot. It's a special occasion, so it's OK to splurge on some nice cheese, a good cut of meat or fish and a nice bottle of wine. It'll still be cheaper than dining out.
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