Category Archives: Do-It-Yourself

For some of us, Valentine’s Day can bring out our inner Grinch instead of cupid. Of course we should shower our loved ones with tokens of our affection, but some people bristle at the idea of being told when and how to do so, especially how much. That said, nothing can be less romantic than getting someone’s critical views on the idea of Valentine’s Day instead of something special. So here are a few ways to say “I care!” without the caviar price tag.

• Can’t afford lobster, filet mignon or oysters? Not to worry, there are wonderful ways to show you care just as deliciously, but for less. Usually, this starts with rolling up your sleeves, getting into that kitchen and putting your heart on a plate (not literally).  Anyone worth their salt will love a homemade version of steak frites (using a less expensive cut such as skirt steak) and if you feel like taking it up a notch, add garlic sautéed shrimp.
• Is your partner fond of Indian, Tuscan or vegan fare? Choose a dish from his or her favourite cuisine that suits your budget and give it your best shot. Nothing says sexy more than paying attention and making your partner’s favourite foods. And don’t forget to set the scene accordingly with music and themed table accessories.
• If champagne is out of the question replace it with some fine Canadian sparkling bubbly, a Spanish cava or a French crémant for a fraction of the price. Don’t fancy the fancy stuff? Pour a good cider or a perry (made from fermented pears) into a champagne glass for another kind of bubbly.
• If a gift is your weapon of choice, remember that so much of what goes into a great gift isn’t the price tag, but the thought and intent behind it. Think back to the last time your partner really listened when you mentioned  how much you loved a certain song, a pair of shoes, or a book you wanted to read. Then remember how you felt when he/she surprised you with just what you inadvertently asked for.  To be heard is to be made to feel special and appreciated, no matter what time of the year, and remember to go for quality over quantity.
• Lastly, we are all so busy that many of us forget about the gift of time. Booking a day off work, putting away your smart phone, arranging for daycare pickup and babysitting and surprising your loved one with an indulgent break from the daily grind can be as memorable as any fancy dinner, while costing nothing more than a daytime stroll through the galleries, a decadent pastry and a cappuccino.  

This Valentine’s Day celebrate with your special someone with a chocolate fondue.

The word “fondue” is derived from the French verb “fondre” meaning “to melt”. Chocolate fondues are made by combining chocolate and cream (you can also add spices and liqueurs depending on your taste) and served with fruit, pieces of cake and/or cookies for dipping.

Here’s a great and easy fondue recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup (12 oz) of semi-sweet chocolate

½ cup of heavy cream

Directions:

Coarsely chop the semi-sweet chocolate and melt into a saucepan on low heat. Add the heavy cream and stir until completely blended and smooth. Stir continuously and do not let the mixture boil. Reduce heat and leave on stovetop until ready to serve. Personalize this recipe by switching up the semi-sweet chocolate with President’s Choice Decadent Chocolate chips or white chocolate.

To spice up the recipe, try cinnamon or cayenne pepper. To add a little punch to the sauce, try adding an ounce of Grand Marnier or Jamaican Rum.

Also, this recipe can be adapted for a dairy-free diet by substituting the heavy cream for a ¼ cup of 2% lactose-free, soy or rice milk. Note that the chocolate flavour will alter slightly due to the milk product used.