How to Cook with Cannabis: A Beginner’s Guide to Infusions

Step 1: Decarboxylation – Activating THC and CBD

Raw cannabis does not contain THC in its psychoactive form. It must be heated through decarboxylation to convert THCA into THC.

How to Decarb Cannabis

Preheat oven to 220–240°F (104–115°C).
Break cannabis into small pieces and spread on a baking sheet.
Bake for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Making Cannabis Infusions

Cannabinoids bind best to fat-based ingredients like butter or oil.

Cannabutter Recipe

Ingredients:

1 cup butter
1 cup water
7–10 grams decarbed cannabis

Instructions:

Melt butter in a saucepan and add water to prevent burning.
Stir in ground, decarbed cannabis.
Simmer on low heat (160–200°F) for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
Strain using a cheesecloth and store in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Cooking with Cannabis

Cannabutter or infused oil can be used in:

Baked goods – Cookies, brownies, cakes.
Savory dishes – Pasta sauces, dressings, stir-fries.
Beverages – Teas, coffees, smoothies.

Dosage Tips

Start with low doses (5 mg or less) and wait 1–2 hours before consuming more.
Stir infused ingredients evenly to prevent uneven potency.

Key Takeaways

Decarboxylation is essential for activating THC and CBD.
Cannabutter and oils allow for easy cannabis infusion in recipes.
Always dose carefully to avoid overconsumption.

Cooking with cannabis is a fun and creative way to enjoy its effects, but it requires precision and patience.