What do you get when you combine asparagus, black licorice, chili pepper, fennel, figs, ginger, nutmeg, olives, oysters, pomegranate, rhino horn and tomatoes?

The world’s most powerful love potion, if you believe the lore. At one time, in some place, all of these and dozens of other foods, have been considered aphrodisiacs, said to increase sexual desire or prowess. Some earned their status solely on looks; some because they represented fertility in nature; and others simply because they were the kind of rare ingredient reserved for someone special.

A handful have stood the test of science: Oysters are rich in zinc, necessary for producing testosterone. Chili peppers increase heart rates and give us a warm feeling, similar to love.

The good news for culinary cupids is that the list of alleged aphrodisiacs is so long, it’s easy to find something to cook on Valentine’s Day. No need to run out for rhino horn, unless you’re really craving it.

With ginger, cardamom and pepper, this spiced chocolate mix is reminiscent of chai tea. To use, pour 1 cup 2 percent reduced-fat scalded milk into a mug; add 2 to 4 tablespoons mix and whisk well. While its aphrodisiac qualities are doubtful, you’re family will love you just the same.

Hot Chocolate Chai Mix

16 ounces good-quality white chocolate, such as Callebaut, chilled and coarsely chopped

1/2 vanilla bean, cut lengthwise and chopped

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

3/4 teaspoons ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper

1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Place about 5 ounces chocolate and chopped vanilla bean in food processor. Pulse just until chocolate is granular. Transfer to a large bowl.

Place about 5 ounces chocolate and ground ginger in processor. Pulse just until chocolate is granular. Add to chocolate-vanilla bean mixture.

Place remaining chocolate, nutmeg, cardamom and peppers in processor. Pulse just until chocolate is granular. Add to chocolate-vanilla bean mixture. Stir well.

Spoon into half-pint jars or small zip-lock bags. Makes about 3 1/2 cups.

Per serving (using 1 cup 2% reduced-fat milk and 3 tablespoons mix): 270 calories, 13 g fat, 25 mg chol., 9 g prot., 28 g carbs., 9 g fiber, 150 mg sodium.

Look for Relish magazine, celebrating America’s love of food, the first Thursday of each month in The Buffalo News.