Love Potions: Latin Aphrodisiac Cocktails for V-Day

Aphrodisiac: Basil

According to lore, this sweet, savory herb was offered as a token of affection in various parts of Italy and it looks like the Italians were on to something. Today, basil is used in aromatherapy to increase blood circulation, which naturally boosts one’s libido. Chef Mariko Amekodommo’s Basil Caipirinha is her homage to Brazil’s signature cocktail and of course, the country that brought us Gisele and the barely-there bikini knows all about firing things up. “If you don't have a muddler, use a wooden spoon to crush the lime and basil together, “ she says. “This process releases more aphrodisiac properties of the basil.”

Basil Caipirinha Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

1 ½ oz. Cachaca

Handful of freshly torn basil leaves

2 tsp. Agave nectar

1 Lime, cut into 4 wedges

Sparkling water

Preparation

In glass, muddle together cachaca, basil, lime and sugar. Add ice and top with sparkling water. Garnish with lime wedge and basil.