Forget everything you know about cannabis. The plant has undergone a serious image makeover in recent years and is now being embraced by the culinary world. Chefs and foodies realize that cannabis can be used to enhance flavors and create new and exciting dining experiences.
This blog will discuss the history of cannabis and food, how the two have been intertwined for centuries, and how cannabis can be used in the kitchen. It will also provide some recipes for you to try at home!
History of Cannabis and Food
Cannabis has been used in cooking since antiquity. In ancient India, ghee was made with cannabis and used to season curries and other dishes. The Chinese also used cannabis as an ingredient in some of their traditional recipes. During the Middle Ages, Europeans explored using cannabis as a flavoring agent and began incorporating it into sweets like candied fruits and chocolates.
These days, many chefs are experimenting with different ways to incorporate cannabis into their menus. Some are infusing butter or oil with marijuana and using it as a base for sauces or marinades. Others are making cannabutter-infused desserts like cakes and brownies, while still others are creating savory dishes with fresh herbs, spices, and hash oils.
How Cannabis Enhances Flavor:
Cannabis has been found to interact with taste buds in several ways. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD have an affinity for fat-soluble molecules, which is why cannabis-infused butter or oil works so well in creating flavorful sauces and marinades. When heated, these cannabinoids also release aromatic terpenes that can enhance the flavor of certain dishes.
Cannabis can also alter our perception of flavor. Studies suggest that consuming cannabis can heighten our senses of smell and taste, making foods seem more flavorful than they normally would be. This phenomenon is called “the munchies” by many people – a common side effect of using marijuana recreationally – but it can be beneficial when used in cooking.
Making Cannabis-Infused Dishes at Home:
If you want to try making a cannabis-infused dish at home, there are several recipes available online. The key is to use the right strain of marijuana for the flavor profile that you’re going for. Different strains contain different levels of THC and CBD, so experiment with a few until you find one that works best for your recipe.
You also need to know how much cannabis to use. This can range from a small amount per serving to an entire ounce per recipe, depending on your choice of dish and how strong you want it to be. It is always better to start with less and add more if needed, as too much cannabis can be overwhelming.
Finally, you must ensure that the cannabis is decarboxylated before using it in any recipe. This process activates the cannabinoids to have an effect when consumed. To do this, simply grind up your cannabis and spread it on a baking sheet. Bake at 240°F for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once done, your decarboxylated marijuana is ready to use!
Interesting Recipes You Can Try at Home:
1) Cannabis-infused Peanut Butter:
This is an easy and delicious way to incorporate cannabis into your meals. Simply mix ¼ cup of peanut butter with two tablespoons of cannabutter, and spread it on toast or crackers for a tasty snack.
2) Cannabis-Infused Brownies:
For those looking for a more indulgent treat, try making cannabis-infused brownies. Mix 1 cup of melted cannabutter with three eggs and 1 ½ cups of sugar until you have a smooth batter. Then add 1 cup of flour, ¾ cup cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt before pouring the mixture into a greased baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes and enjoy!
3) Cannabis-Infused Gummies:
This is a great way to get your daily dose of cannabis and satisfy that sweet tooth. Simply mix 1 cup of fruit juice with ½ cup of honey and two tablespoons of cannabutter over medium heat until it boils. Then add three packets of unflavored gelatin, constantly stirring for 5 minutes before pouring the mixture into molds and allowing it to cool completely. In addition, you can also try out these Delta 8 Gummies to get a sense of what’s out there and to compare it with your homemade gummies.
Cannabis-infused dishes are a great way to bring an extra layer of flavor into your culinary experiences. From savory dishes to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone. With a few simple steps and the right strain of marijuana, you can create delicious cannabis-infused meals in no time! As always, make sure to use cannabis responsibly and enjoy!
Michelle Dico
Saturday 8th of April 2023
I visited Thailand recently and was amazed that they're using cannabis in their food. In Bangkok, you can see multiple cafes that use cannabis in their drinks and snacks.