If there is one cupid’s arrow that has shot us all, it is the one that made us fall madly in love with coffee and chocolate. These flavours own the hearts of almost everyone. If you are anything like us, you are probably looking for any excuse to incorporate them into your meals.
It’s time to get creative on the day of love. Here are the top Valentine’s Day Dinner Recipes you must try if you want to bring these romantic, bold flavours to your table.
1. Coffee Rubbed Wagyu Ribeye
For a truly luxurious main course, nothing beats the buttery texture of Wagyu paired with a robust coffee crust.
Ingredients
- 2 American Wagyu Ribeye Steaks
- The Rub: 2 tbsp ground coffee (freshly ground, not instant), 2 tsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp garlic powder.
Method
- Prep the Grill: Preheat your barbecue to 300°F (149°C) for indirect grilling.
- Season: Combine all rub ingredients. Generously coat the steaks with the mixture.
- Slow Cook: Place steaks on the grill away from direct heat. Cook for 30 to 60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (49°C).
- The Sear: Remove steaks to rest while you crank the grill (or infrared sear station) to high. Sear the steaks for 1 to 2 minutes per side to create perfect marks.
2. Maple & Coffee Brined Pork Chops
Coffee makes an incredible brine that tenderizes meat while adding a smoky complexity.
Ingredients
- Pork: 4 large bone-in pork chops, 2 tbsp ground coffee, 4 tbsp maple syrup, 4 tbsp sea salt.
- Potatoes: 1 kg new potatoes, chopped sage, 3 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Sauce: 150 ml double cream, 2 tsp whole grain mustard.
Method
- Brine (Day Before): Brew the coffee with 400ml boiling water. Once cold, stir in salt and maple syrup. Submerge the chops in the brine in a sealed bag and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Prep Potatoes: Slice the potatoes 3/4 of the way through (Hasselback style). Toss with oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill Potatoes: Wrap potatoes in a foil parcel and grill over direct heat for 30 minutes. Flip and cook for another 30 minutes. Open the foil and crisp them directly on the bars at the end.
- Grill Pork & Apples: Discard brine. Oil the chops and grill for 6 to 7 minutes per side. Add apple wedges to the grill at the same time, turning regularly.
- Sauce: Warm the cream and mustard in a small heatproof pan on the grill. Serve drizzled over the chops.
3. Spicy Chili with Dark Chocolate
Chocolate adds a velvety richness and depth to this hearty, spicy chili.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/sausage)
- 1 onion, 2 jalapeños, 1 bell pepper, 2 carrots, 8 mushrooms (all diced/sliced)
- 6 cups crushed tomatoes, 1 can tomato paste
- ½ cup 70% to 80% dark chocolate (chopped)
- Spice Mix: 4 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp red pepper flakes, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 2 tsp cumin, 2 tsp parsley, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tsp basil.
Method
- Sauté: In a Dutch oven on the grill’s side burner, melt butter and oil. Sauté onions, then add meat and jalapeños until cooked through.
- Combine: Stir in tomatoes, paste, vegetables, and all spices. Bring to a simmer.
- Bake: Stir in the chopped chocolate. Move the pot to the main grill (350°F) and cook with the lid on using indirect heat for at least 1 hour.
4. Coffee & Caramel Brownies
Finish your romantic evening with a dessert that proves coffee and chocolate are the ultimate power couple.
Ingredients
- 200 g dark chocolate (chopped), ¼ cup butter (melted), ¾ cup sugar
- 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla
- ¾ cup flour, 1 tbsp instant espresso powder, ¼ tsp baking soda
- 3 tbsp caramel syrup
Method
- Melt: Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate. Let it cool slightly.
- Mix: Whisk butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Dry Ingredients: Sift flour, espresso powder, and baking soda. Stir into the butter mixture.
- Fold: Fold in the melted chocolate. Pour into a greased 8×8 inch pan and drizzle caramel on top.
- Bake: Use indirect heat on the grill at 350°F for 35 minutes. Rotate the pan halfway through for an even bake.
Whether you are craving a savory steak or a decadent dessert, these recipes prove that coffee and chocolate belong on your dinner plate.
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