Why Cannabis Belongs in Your Kitchen
Cannabis is no longer just about rolling joints – it's becoming a celebrated culinary ingredient. With the rise of cannabis edibles and the legal home-grow culture in South Africa, more foodies are experimenting with baking, cooking, and even braaing with cannabis. Baking with cannabis not only offers an alternative way to consume but also allows for precise dosage and a longer-lasting, gentler effect compared to smoking.
Step One: Decarb or Go Home
Before you get excited about baking a milk tart with a herbal kick, you need to decarboxylate your cannabis. This process activates THC and CBD, unlocking their effects.
- How: Bake your ground cannabis in the oven at 110 degrees Celsius for 30-40 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Keep an eye on it – burnt bud = bitter cakes.
This step is crucial for any successful cannabis infusion, whether you're making cannabutter, oil, or directly adding it into your recipe.
Cannabutter: The Secret Sauce
Your best friend in cannabis baking is cannabutter (or canna-oil). Once you've made a batch, you can transform almost any South African favourite into an edible.
Basic Cannabutter Recipe:
1. Melt butter on low heat.
2. Add decarbed cannabis and simmer for 2-3 hours (don't let it boil).
3. Strain through cheesecloth and chill.
Now you're ready to twist classic recipes into high-vibe creations.
South African Favourites with a Cannabis Twist
1. Cannabis Milk Tart: The creamy, cinnamon-topped favourite gets a mellow makeover with infused butter in the crust. Pair with rooibos tea for the ultimate Sunday treat.
2. Green Koeksisters: Use cannabutter in your dough, then dip in the syrup as usual. Sweet, sticky, and a little bit cheeky – perfect for an adult dessert table.
3. Potjiekos Infusion: Swap out regular oil for canna-oil and let the slow cooking process create a rich, earthy flavour. Ideal for relaxed outdoor gatherings with friends.
4. Dagga Rusks: Your morning coffee just got interesting. A gentle dose makes for a chill sunrise ritual.
Dosage: Start Low, Go Slow
One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is using too much. Follow the start low, go slow rule:
- Begin with 2.5-5 mg THC per serving.
- Wait at least 90 minutes before deciding if you want more.
Remember: You can always eat more – but you can't un-eat a rusk!
Pair It with South African Culture
Cannabis baking is about more than just edibles – it's about celebrating culture. Whether it's a Heritage Day braai, a family gathering, or a weekend chill session, cannabis-infused recipes bring people together in a new, modern way.
Final Thoughts: Your Heritage, Your Way
Baking with cannabis gives you the power to honour tradition while adding a playful, modern twist. Just imagine passing around a platter of infused koeksisters on Heritage Day – what better way to spark conversation about food, culture, and the future of cannabis in South Africa?
Disclaimer: This blog supports responsible cannabis use. The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.