Cannabis-infused butter, also known as cannabutter, is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some cannabis-infused baked goods or add a little something extra to your savory dishes, making cannabutter is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make cannabis-infused butter at home:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup ground cannabis (decarboxylated)
– Water (as needed)
Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis
Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to activate its psychoactive properties. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Break up your cannabis into small pieces and spread it in an even layer on a baking sheet. Bake the cannabis in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until it becomes dry and slightly brown. This will ensure that the THC in the cannabis is activated and ready to be infused into the butter.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a saucepan, melt the butter on low heat. Be careful not to let it burn or boil. The low heat allows the butter to infuse slowly and evenly with the cannabis.
Step 3: Add the Cannabis
Once the butter has melted, add the decarboxylated cannabis to the saucepan. Stir well to ensure that all the cannabis is evenly coated in the butter. Continue to simmer the mixture on low heat for about 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the cannabis from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
Step 4: Strain the Cannabutter
After simmering for a few hours, the cannabis and butter mixture should have infused thoroughly. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Set up a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a heatproof container to strain the mixture. Pour the butter through the strainer, allowing the liquid to collect in the container. Be sure to press down on the cannabis using a spoon or spatula to extract all the butter.
Step 5: Refrigerate and Separate
Let the cannabutter cool down to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. The butter will solidify and separate from any excess water that might have been present. Once chilled, carefully remove the solidified butter from any remaining water in the container. Your cannabis-infused butter is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!
Note: It’s important to pay attention to the potency of the cannabis you use and to dose your recipes accordingly. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. Also, make sure to store your cannabutter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and potency.
Enjoy experimenting with savory recipes such as cannabis-infused mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or even incorporating it into your homemade pasta sauce. Always remember to consume cannabis-infused foods responsibly and be mindful of dosage to achieve the desired effects.