Food of Love

Submitted by Lesley Ann Beck on February 12, 2010 - 3:53pm

 

 
Chocolate is a favorite romantic gift for Valentine’s Day, possibly because the luscious treat has a bit of a reputation as an aphrodisiac. Find out whether or not that reputation is deserved when food historian Francine Segan presents her talk, “Aphrodisiacs: Myth or Reality,” Saturday evening at the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center in Great Barrington, followed by a reception featuring an array of Italian candies and confections.
 
 
Historic figures from Cleopatra to Henry VIII and Casanova are believed to have used aphrodisiacs; from the revolting (frog spit) to the delicious (deep, rich chocolate), people in love (or lust) have been willing to try any number of substances to enhance their sexual abilities. Segan will share the amusing history of aphrodisiacs and some little-known lore on the subject, as well as noting the most unusual ingredients.
 
 
Segan, a part-time Berkshire resident and an accomplished cookbook author (Shakespeare’s Kitchen, The Philosopher’s Kitchen, The Opera Lover’s Cookbook), also is the U.S. spokesperson for Dolce Italia, the Italian Confectioners Association. Segan, who speaks Italian, is at work on a book about Italian sweets, and recently has spent time in Italy doing research. Her expertise, especially about Italian chocolate, will probably find its way into her talk and will certainly be on display during the sampling of Italian sweets to follow.
 
 
The talk begins at 7 p.m., followed by the dessert reception. At 8 p.m., the film Moonstruck will be shown. Tickets are available for either the talk or the movie or for both. Check www.mahaiwe.org for information.

 

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