Cannabis Gourmet: How to Make Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, and Honey for Cooking

Cannabis-infused oils and honey are fantastic ways to add the therapeutic benefits of cannabis to your cooking. Whether you’re looking to manage pain, reduce anxiety, or simply relax after a long day, these infused ingredients can elevate your culinary experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make cannabis-infused olive oil, coconut oil, and honey at home, making it easy to incorporate these powerful ingredients into your favorite recipes.

Why Use Infused Oils and Honey?

Infused oils and honey are versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from salads to baked goods. They allow for precise dosing, which is especially helpful for those using cannabis for therapeutic reasons. Plus, making them at home ensures that you know exactly what’s in your products, allowing you to control potency and flavor.

Understanding Decarboxylation

Before we get started, it’s essential to understand the process of decarboxylation. This step is crucial because it activates the beneficial compounds in cannabis, namely THC and CBD. When cannabis is heated, it undergoes a chemical change that converts non-intoxicating THCA into THC, which has psychoactive properties. For CBD, the conversion is similar. To decarboxylate cannabis, you’ll need to heat it gently before infusing it into oils or honey.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• Cannabis flower (about 7-10 grams for each infusion)
• Olive oil or coconut oil (1 cup for each infusion)
• Honey (1 cup for the honey infusion)

Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• A grinder
• A double boiler or a slow cooker
• Cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer
• Glass jars for storage
• A thermometer (optional, but helpful)

Making Cannabis-Infused Olive Oil

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). This temperature is perfect for decarboxylation, as it activates the compounds without destroying them.

Prepare your cannabis by breaking it up into small pieces and spreading it evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for about 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. The cannabis should turn a light brown color and become fragrant.

Step 2: Infuse the Olive Oil

Combine the decarboxylated cannabis and olive oil in a double boiler or slow cooker. If you’re using a double boiler, fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Heat the mixture on low for 2-3 hours. Keeping the temperature between 160°F and 200°F (71°C to 93°C) is ideal. Use a thermometer if you have one to maintain the correct temperature. Stir occasionally to mix.

Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a clean glass jar, discarding the solid cannabis material.

Store your infused olive oil in a cool, dark place. It should last for about 1-2 months, though it’s best to use it sooner for maximum potency.

Making Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

Follow the same steps as above for decarboxylating your cannabis.

Step 2: Infuse the Coconut Oil

Combine the decarboxylated cannabis and coconut oil in a double boiler or slow cooker. Coconut oil has a higher fat content, which makes it an excellent carrier for cannabinoids.

Heat the mixture on low for 2-3 hours, maintaining the temperature between 160°F and 200°F (71°C to 93°C). Stir occasionally to mix.

Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a clean glass jar, discarding the solid cannabis material.

Store your infused coconut oil in a cool, dark place. It can last for up to 2 months or longer if stored properly.

Making Cannabis-Infused Honey

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

As always, start by decarboxylating your cannabis using the steps outlined above.

Step 2: Infuse the Honey

Combine the decarboxylated cannabis and honey in a slow cooker or a double boiler. If you’re using a double boiler, be sure to keep the bottom pot filled with water.

Heat the mixture on low for about 2 hours. Unlike oils, honey can get very hot quickly, so keep the heat low to avoid burning the honey.

Strain the honey through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer into a clean glass jar, making sure to press down to extract as much honey as possible.

Store your infused honey in a cool, dark place. It should last indefinitely due to the natural preservatives in honey.

Tips for Using Cannabis-Infused Oils and Honey

Start Slow: When using your infused oils or honey in recipes, start with a small amount to gauge potency. Everyone’s tolerance is different, and it’s best to find what works for you.

Mix and Match: Feel free to combine infused oils in recipes for unique flavors and effects. For instance, try mixing coconut oil and olive oil in a salad dressing for a delicious twist.

Experiment in the Kitchen: Use your infused oils in salad dressings, marinades, or as a finishing oil on cooked dishes. Cannabis-infused honey is excellent in teas, drizzled over toast, or used in baking.

Label Your Infusions: Always label your jars with the type of infusion and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of potency and freshness.

Cooking with Cannabis-Infused Ingredients

Now that you have your cannabis-infused olive oil, coconut oil, and honey, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! Here are a few ideas on how to use these ingredients:

Salad Dressing: Mix infused olive oil with vinegar, mustard, and your favorite herbs for a delicious salad dressing.

Baked Goods: Substitute regular oils or butter with cannabis-infused coconut oil in your favorite baked goods, like brownies, cookies, or cakes.

Smoothies: Add a spoonful of cannabis-infused honey to your smoothies for a sweet kick.

Hot Beverages: Stir a teaspoon of cannabis-infused honey into your tea or coffee for a comforting drink.

Conclusion

Making cannabis-infused olive oil, coconut oil, and honey at home is a straightforward process that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. With these infused ingredients, you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of cannabis in delicious and creative ways. Whether you’re managing pain, seeking relaxation, or simply looking to enhance your meals, these infusions are a fantastic addition to your cooking routine. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes, and remember to start slow as you find your ideal dose!