Cooking with cannabis is not just about getting high – it is about unlocking flavours, enhancing wellness, and getting creative in the kitchen! Whether you are a seasoned cannabis chef or a curious beginner, this guide will walk you through the basics, share some must-know tips, and give you inspiration for your next delicious, elevated meal.
Why Cook with Cannabis?
Cannabis-infused food has been a part of cultures for centuries, from ancient India's Bhang (a cannabis-infused milk drink) to today's gourmet edibles. Beyond the obvious recreation fun, cooking with cannabis offers:
- A longer-lasting, body-relaxing experience compared to smoking.
- A healthier alternative for those who want to avoid inhaling smoke.
- Customizable effects by choosing different strains and dosages.
- Deliciously creative possibilities – think beyond brownies to infused oils, savoury dishes, and even cocktails!
Getting Started: Decarboxylation is Key!
Before tossing cannabis into your dish, you need to activate the THC or CBD in the plant. This process, called decarboxylation, transforms the raw cannabinoids into their active forms.
How to Decarb Cannabis:
- Preheat your oven to 110-120°C (230-250°F).
- Break up your cannabis into small pieces (not too fine, or it may burn).
- Spread it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- Cool and store in an airtight container until ready to use.
Now your cannabis is ready to be infused into butter, oil, or even honey!
Cannabis Infusions: Your Kitchen Essentials
1. Cannabutter (Classic and Versatile): A must-have for baked goods, pasta sauces, and even popcorn!
How to Make it:
- Melt 1 cup of butter over low heat.
- Add 7-10 grams of decarbed cannabis and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain through cheesecloth, cool, and store in the fridge.
2. Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil: Great for vegan dishes, smoothies, and frying!
How to Make it:
- Follow the same process as cannabutter but use coconut oil instead.
3. Cannabis Honey: Perfect for teas, drizzling over toast, or adding to salad dressings!
How to Make it:
- Heat 1 cup of honey on low heat.
- Stir in 7-10 grams of decarbed cannabis and let it simmer for 30-60 minutes.
- Strain and store.
Dosing 101: Start Low, Go Slow
Edibles take longer to kick in (30 minutes to 2 hours), but the effects last much longer than smoking. The golden rule? Start with a small dose (5-10mg of THC) and wait at least two hours before consuming more.
If you accidentally take too much, do not panic! Hydrate, relax, and try some black peppercorns – they contain compounds that may help counteract THC's intensity.
Fun & Easy Cannabis Recipes to Try
1. Green Goddess Avocado Toast
A healthy, feel-good way to start your day!
Ingredients:
- 1 slice sourdough bread
- 1/2 avocado, mashed
- 1 tsp cannabis-infused olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt, pepper, chili flakes (to taste)
- Optional: poached egg, feta, microgreens
Method:
- Toast your bread.
- Mix avocado, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Spread on toast and drizzle with cannabis oil
- Top with your favourite extras!
2. Cannabis-Infused Chocolate Truffles
Because who does not love chocolate?
Ingredients:
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cannabutter
- Cocoa powder for coating
Method:
- Heat cream until warm (not boiling).
- Add chocolate and cannabutter stirring until smooth.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour, then roll into balls and coat in cocoa powder.
- Enjoy responsibly!
Final Thoughts: Cooking with Cannabis is an Art
Experimenting with cannabis in the kitchen is about finding the right balance of flavour, effects, and fun. Whether you are making a gourmet meal or a simple snack, mindful dosing and quality ingredients are key!
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.
Cooking with Cannabis