Cooking with cannabis has evolved significantly over the past few years, introducing new methods and products that make it easier and more enjoyable to incorporate cannabis into home-cooked meals. This trend is gaining popularity across various age groups, but particularly among adults aged 21 to 39. Here’s a look at the latest trends and forms of cannabis used in cooking, along with some resources for recipes.
Popular Forms of Cannabis Used in Cooking
Cannabis-Infused Oils and Butters
Cannabis-infused oils and butters remain staples in cannabis cooking. These can be used in a wide range of recipes, from baked goods to savory dishes. Infused olive oil, coconut oil, and butter are versatile and allow for precise dosing.
Cannabis Tinctures
Tinctures are concentrated cannabis extracts that can be added to food and drinks. They are popular because they provide a controlled way to add cannabis to meals without altering the flavor significantly. A few drops can turn an ordinary dish into a cannabis-infused delight.
Cannabis-Infused Honey and Syrups
Cannabis-infused honey and syrups are emerging as popular ingredients for sweet recipes and beverages. They offer a natural sweetener option that pairs well with teas, desserts, and even breakfast items like pancakes and waffles.
Cannabis-Infused Spices and Seasonings
Innovative products like cannabis-infused spices and seasonings are now available, allowing chefs to add a hint of cannabis to their dishes effortlessly. These can be used to enhance the flavor of a variety of meals, from soups to grilled meats.
Latest Trends in Cannabis Cooking
Microdosing
Microdosing, or using small amounts of cannabis to achieve subtle effects, is becoming a popular trend in cannabis cooking. This approach allows individuals to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without experiencing strong psychoactive effects, making it ideal for social gatherings and everyday meals.
Gourmet and Fine Dining
Cannabis-infused gourmet and fine dining experiences are on the rise. Chefs are experimenting with cannabis to create sophisticated dishes that highlight the plant’s unique flavors and effects. This trend is bringing cannabis cooking into high-end restaurants and private dinner parties.
Health and Wellness
The health and wellness trend in cannabis cooking focuses on using cannabis as a superfood ingredient. Recipes that combine cannabis with other health-promoting foods like kale, quinoa, and avocados are becoming popular. This trend is particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers looking to enhance their diet with the benefits of cannabis.
DIY Edibles
Many home cooks are embracing the do-it-yourself (DIY) edibles trend. With the availability of cannabis cooking kits and online tutorials, making edibles at home has never been easier. This trend allows for customization and control over the potency and flavor of the final product.
Age Bracket Most Involved in Cannabis Cooking
Adults aged 21 to 39 are the primary demographic driving the cannabis cooking trend. This age group is more likely to experiment with new culinary techniques and ingredients, including cannabis. They are also more health-conscious and open to incorporating cannabis into their wellness routines.
Recipe Resource
For those looking to get started with cannabis cooking, a great resource is the book The Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook: Feel-Good Food for Home Cooks by Robyn Griggs Lawrence. This book offers a variety of recipes and tips for cooking with cannabis, catering to both beginners and experienced cooks.
Sources
- Lawrence, R. G. The Cannabis Kitchen Cookbook: Feel-Good Food for Home Cooks. Skyhorse Publishing.
- Cannabis Now. “Trends in Cannabis Cooking.” Retrieved from cannabisnow.com.
- The Cannabist. “Cooking with Cannabis: Tips and Recipes.” Retrieved from thecannabist.co.