As members find CBD helpful in relieving various ailments, club chefs are jumping on the trend and incorporating CBD into dishes.
CBD is one of the cannabinoid compounds found in marijuana. Since it is non-psychoactive it does not result in getting “high,” however it can provide benefits like relaxation, decreased inflammation, and reduced anxiety. As CBD has grown in popularity and is available in various forms, it has also become an ingredient embraced by many wellness-minded chefs for its purported benefits. But before adding CBD to any food, there are a few important things to know.
First, it is best to get a high-quality CBD oil that is pure and clean which will make a huge difference in terms of potency and overall quality. Also, look for one that is organically grown so there is less of a chance of it including pesticides. Then decided whether to use broad-spectrum, full-spectrum or CBD isolate. CBD isolate, because it contains nothing but CBD, has the weakest flavor and aroma, which means it is the least likely to alter the taste of your product. But full-spectrum and broad-spectrum contain more potentially beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes which can alter your recipe’s taste. Think about how potent an item should be and choose the concentration and amount accordingly. It is always best to start with a low dose and work your way up.
The boiling point of CBD is between 320° and 356° Fahrenheit. Baking or heating above this point for a prolonged period of time can destroy many of the active compounds in CBD, meaning its potency and effectiveness can be diminished. Cannabis must never be cooked over direct heat and works best when incorporated into dishes while cool or slightly heated. To be safe, CBD oil should be added after the prepared food has been removed from a hot surface or oven to preserve the integrity of the plant compounds.
CBD oil pairs best with foods that contain medium fatty chains. Taking CBD with food increases absorption, but the structure of saturated and unsaturated fats allows for the best absorption rate. You’ll want foods with fats and oils such as coconut oil, butter, olive oil, or even peanut butter. Some best foods to pair with CBD oil are antipasti, guacamole, salad dressings, and sauces or CBD butter for meats or fish. For baked goods baked over 350°F, it is best to use CBD in the frosting or glaze.
When consuming CBD orally, it passes through the digestive tract and is then processed through the liver. This process helps CBD stay in your system for hours but with more subtle effects compared to other methods of consumption. Because of these long-lasting effects, many people prefer consuming CBD through food. CBD can have varying effects from person to person, so chefs should inform members of the exact dosage so they can proceed with their meal accordingly.