Cooking With Weed: The Science Behind THC Recipes
The world of cooking with weed has hit new highs of creativity. Even world-class chefs are in on the action. With 18 states enjoying fully-legal marijuana, plenty of folks are looking beyond brownies.
Blend the fun-stoking and medicinal benefits with fresh flavors. All you need is a little knowledge and the right ingredients.
Do you know the science behind cooking with weed? Why does it have its effects? And what was I just saying?
We have a guide to the science, the benefits, and the flavors. Kick back and read on!
The Science of Cooking With Weed
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiol (CBD) bind to receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). THC is the main psychoactive compound. CBD mellows its effects and has medicinal benefits.
To feel the effects when cooking with weed, it needs to be decarboxylated. This converts tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) into tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 230°F (110°C)-250°F (121°C) for 20-30 minutes does the trick.
THC is fat-soluble, so it needs to simmer in butter or oil for a few hours. Low heat works best; boiling can destroy the THC. Straining filters out the plant matter, leaving silky smooth cannabutter or THC oil.
Once ingested, THC makes its way through the digestive tract into the bloodstream. The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC. This is bioavailable and crosses the blood-brain barrier easier than THC.
Cooking with weed can give much stronger effects than expected. THC recipes take up to 2 hours to kick in and can last all day. Be careful with the dosage, for real!
The Benefits of Marijuana-Infused Cooking
THC recipes are easy on your lungs. No more coughing fits or panting at the gym. Marijuana-infused cooking can boost your nutrition too.
For medicinal users, the longer effect duration is a plus. You can stick with one dose for hours if you get the amount right. For those of you up at 6 am, this may be less of a positive!
High CBD strains, like Indica varieties, work well in medicinal THC recipes. Once you know the strain, you can optimize the dosage. Testing is best for precise measures as plant THC/CBD ratios can vary.
Beyond Brownies: THC Recipes
Any meal or snack with butter or oil can be a THC recipe. Gourmet chefs in the USA have taken weed into the stratosphere of gastronomy. Think THC seafood linguini, beef bourguignon, and kief quiche.
Once you have your THC-infused oil, you can blend it with garlic and seasoning for a salad dressing. Use THC coconut oil for a spicy Thai green curry. Whip up an extra soothing chicken or lentil soup.
On the go? Choose THC gummies, lollipops, or chocolate bars to munch on. Check out The River Provisioning to see what’s out there!
Add marijuana to smoothies for a fruity herbal kick. You always have the classic brownies, cookies, and cakes to lie back on.
New-World Flavors Cooking Now
Imaginations take flight. The world of cooking with weed is open for business, and creativity is the secret ingredient. Well, one of the secret ingredients, but the other is far from a secret these days.
A dose of cooking science lets you savor the benefits or impress your friends. Choose healthy THC recipes. Think beyond brownies and stay on the right side of the herb.
We hope you enjoyed our guide. We have plenty more lifestyle, health, and entertainment tips for you. Check out the rest of our site today!
