“I saw my life branching out before me like the green fig tree in the story. From the tip of every branch, like a fat purple fig, a wonderful future beckoned and winked. “ Sylvia Plath

This Valentine’s day, try a new dessert that is simple and sensual. Traditionally chocolate covered strawberries have been a holiday favorite but substituting with a more unique fruit can prove to have benefits.

Since the days of Cleopatra, when figs were a staple of Egyptian royalty, they have been associated with sensuality. We now know figs contain amino acids which boost sexual stamina and increase libido. In Chinese medicine, figs are known as a powerhouses of healing essence, figs have been used to promote longevity for years and can moisten the Lungs to relieve persistent coughs, benefit the Large intestine (has a laxative effect), and generally ease swelling while detoxifying the body. (1) Figs nourish Qi and Blood and clear heat and toxins.

Dark chocolate is another well known food that can help jumpstart a sexy encounter. Chocolate contains phenylethylamine—a stimulant that aids in excitement, as well as giving a sense of well-being. To see the benefits in your sex drive as well as your heart health, make sure the chocolate you are using is at least 75% cacao For variety, add bits of walnut, coconut or sea salt.

To make this vegan, use dairy free chocolate.

Ingredients

  • 12 Black Mission or Brown Turkey Figs, washed and sliced in half lengthwise

  • 4 oz melted dark chocolate, melted

  • Flaky salt

Directions

Wash figs and slice in half lengthwise.

  1. Melt dark chocolate in microwave, stirring well every 15-20 seconds. We recommend turning your microwave to 50% to avoid burning the chocolate.

  2. Dip each fig half in chocolate and place on a tray lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with sea salt and put tray in refrigerator for about 30 minutes to let chocolate harden. Enjoy or save in an airtight container.

Notes and Recommendations

  • Never add water to melting chocolate or the texture will become lumpy.

  • Use uniform pieces of chocolate to ensure the mixture is heated evenly.

  • Once the chocolate has melted, remove from heat immediately. If the substance starts to harden return to heat.

  • Add chopped walnuts, pistachios, coconut or shaved orange peel for variety.

  1. https://www.tcmworld.org/recipes/fig-balsamic-vinegar/