If food be the way to a man’s heart, then be sure to really raise the temperature this Valentine’s Day with the perfect natural aphrodisiac – beetroot.

Unbeknownst to many, the humble beetroot is a natural aphrodisiac, so serving it up on Britain’s most romantic day is a sure-fire way to set passions alight, writes Emma Crowhurst.

The benefits of beetroot juice, which is believed to boost blood flow and enhance hormone production, have been getting a lot of publicity in recent months.

According to Suffolk’s James White Drinks, which produces three beetroot drinks, it also boasts healthy amounts of tryptophan, the essential amino acid that aids the production of seratonin in the brain. Seratonin is the chemical which makes you feel calm and gives a sense of wellbeing – the perfect setting for a romantic night in.

If you’d like to enjoy beetroot as part of your Valentine’s supper then why not dish up this delicious beetroot risotto, developed by James White Drinks with chef Patrick Drake.