Ella Walter
Cannabis-infused coconut oil is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of edible and topical recipes. It is plant-based and works with almost every diet. Coconut oil is one of the best oils for cannabis infusion because of its high-fat content, which helps absorb cannabinoids like THC and CBD. The process of making cannabis-infused coconut oil can be done in a crockpot, slow cooker, instant pot, or even a coffee pot, and the final product can be used in recipes like brownies and chocolate chip cookies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of cannabis | Flower, leaf trimmings, traditionally dried and cured flower buds, hash, or concentrates |
| Type of coconut oil | Virgin, unrefined, organic, refined, liquid, solid |
| Equipment | Crockpot, instant pot, slow cooker, rice cooker, saute pan, stovetop, coffee pot, oven, mason jar |
| Temperature | Low, 220 degrees Fahrenheit in the oven, 70 degrees Celsius, 120 degrees Celsius, 170 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Time | 3 hours, 4 hours, 8-12 hours, 20 minutes, 30-40 minutes, 40 minutes |
| Ratio | 1 ounce cannabis to 1 cup coconut oil, 1:1 ratio, 1/4-1/2 ounce bud to 1 cup oil, 1/2 ounce cannabis to 1/2 cup oil, 3 cups coconut oil to 3 cups weed mix, 1/3-1/2 cup oil to 7g bud |
| Other ingredients | Water, butter |
Explore related products
$6.02
What You'll Learn
Using a crockpot or slow cooker
To start, you will need organic extra virgin coconut oil, which can be purchased at health food stores. The amount of coconut oil used will depend on the desired potency and the quantity of the final product. For a stronger infusion, it is recommended to use just enough coconut oil to cover the herb completely.
The first step is to melt a small amount of coconut oil in the crockpot, especially if the oil has solidified due to temperatures below 76°F (24.4°C). Finely ground or powdered herb is then added to the crockpot, followed by additional coconut oil to cover the herb. The crockpot should be set to a low temperature, and the mixture should be cooked for 4 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally. A longer infusion time will result in a more potent product, but it is important not to exceed 8 hours to avoid degradation of the cannabinoids.
After the infusion process, the mixture should be allowed to cool slightly before being strained using a cheesecloth or a non-absorbent strainer to remove any sediment. The oil can be strained multiple times using finer filters until it is clear and free of all sediments. The finished oil can be stored in a Mason jar and does not need to be refrigerated. It can be used in various dishes, such as stir-fries, eggs, baking, brownies, coffee, or anywhere you would use oil.
Cleaning Burner Drip Pans: Ammonia Solution for Sparkling Pans
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Decarboxylation process
Decarboxylation is a crucial step in the process of making cannabis-infused coconut oil. It involves activating the plant's cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, to enhance the potency of the final product. The process varies depending on the equipment used and the desired potency. Here is a detailed guide to the decarboxylation process:
Oven Decarboxylation:
- Preheat your oven to 220 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare a sheet pan, cake pan, or a glass baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Spread your desired amount of cannabis flower evenly on the pan or dish.
- Place the cannabis in the oven and set a timer for around 40 minutes. This duration may vary depending on your preference and the specific strain you are using. Keep in mind that different cannabinoids and terpenes decarboxylate at different temperatures, so adjust the temperature and time accordingly.
- Once the set time has elapsed, remove the cannabis from the oven and proceed to the next step.
Instant Pot or Crockpot Decarboxylation:
- If using an Instant Pot, place the desired amount of cannabis flower into a mason jar. Fill the jar with enough coconut oil to cover the cannabis. You can use solid or liquid coconut oil, but unrefined virgin coconut oil is recommended for a better final product due to its higher fat content.
- Secure the lid on the mason jar – not too tight, not too loose.
- Place the jar inside the Instant Pot or crockpot.
- Add water to the pot, ensuring it reaches about one-third to halfway up the mason jar.
- Set the Instant Pot to high pressure (around 11.6 psi) and cook for 20 minutes.
- After the cooking cycle, perform a full slow release until the valve drops, which may take around 30-40 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can use the Sous Vide mode on the Instant Pot for decarboxylation.
- If using a crockpot, follow similar steps and cook on low heat for about 3-4 hours.
It is important to monitor the temperature during the decarboxylation process, as THC degrades with temperature. While some studies indicate that THC degradation occurs above 70° Celsius, recent studies suggest that brief exposure to higher temperatures, up to 200° Celsius, may be safe.
Remember, the decarboxylation process is essential to activate the cannabinoids and enhance the potency of your cannabis-infused coconut oil. Adjust the temperatures and timings based on your specific equipment and the desired potency of the final product.
Pan-Seared Cod: The Best Sauce
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Adjusting the potency
Oven Decarboxylation: Before infusing the coconut oil, decarboxylate your cannabis flower in the oven to activate dormant THC/cannabinoids and increase potency. Set your oven to 220 degrees Fahrenheit and place your ground flower inside for 40 minutes. This step is optional but recommended for maximum potency.
Cannabis-to-Oil Ratio: The amount of cannabis used in proportion to the coconut oil will impact potency. A common starting ratio is 1 ounce of cannabis to 1 cup of coconut oil. Adjust this ratio based on your desired potency; using more cannabis will result in stronger oil.
Type of Cannabis: The type of cannabis flower used will affect potency. THC-dominant strains will produce a different final product than CBD-dominant strains. Choose the blend that works best for you, considering the desired effects.
Freshness of Cannabis: The freshness of the cannabis material influences potency. Using fresh, raw cannabis leaf trimmings will result in a higher concentration of cannabinoids and a more potent oil. Dried and cured flower buds will have a lower cannabinoid concentration.
Cooking Temperature: Different cannabinoids and terpenes decarboxylate at varying temperatures. Adjusting the cooking temperature can impact potency. THC, for example, degrades at temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius, so consider using lower temperatures to preserve potency.
Infusion Time: Increasing the infusion time can also affect potency. If you skip the decarboxylation step, a longer infusion time of 8-12 hours will help achieve decarboxylation over time and may enhance the potency of your oil.
By adjusting these variables, you can customize the potency of your cannabis-infused coconut oil to suit your preferences and desired effects. Remember to start with smaller amounts and gradually increase the potency as you gain experience and understanding of the process.
How Safe is it for Dogs to Eat Bread?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Cooking equipment and temperature
When it comes to cooking equipment, you can use a crockpot, slow cooker, instant pot, rice cooker, or a simple stovetop setup. If you're using a crockpot, it's important to use the low-temperature setting to prevent the breakdown of cannabinoids. Alternatively, you can opt for a digital thermometer to monitor the temperature throughout the cooking process.
For decarboxylation, which activates dormant THC/cannabinoids, a common oven temperature recommendation is 220 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes. However, it's worth noting that different cannabinoids and terpenes decarboxylate at varying temperatures, so you may need to adjust the temperature and time accordingly.
When using a crockpot, it's recommended to add a small amount of water to act as a cushion and prevent scorching or burning. You can then add your coconut oil to the water and place the lid on top, keeping the temperature low.
If you're using a stovetop, be cautious as the oil can get knocked over, leading to potential burns or fires. Maintain a low temperature to avoid burning off valuable compounds.
For an instant pot, you can place a mason jar filled with a mixture of water, coconut oil, and cannabis inside the pot. Ensure the lid is secure but not too tight to prevent condensation buildup. Set the instant pot to high pressure and maintain a temperature of around 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remember, THC degrades with temperature, so it's important to monitor the heat and not exceed safe thresholds.
How to Season Your Iron Stove Grill Pan: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Storing and using the oil
Coconut oil has a long shelf life, similar to other cooking oils such as olive oil or vegetable oil. The general rule is that coconut oil will last for up to two years if properly stored. The shelf life depends on the type of coconut oil you have. Virgin or extra-virgin coconut oil, also called unrefined coconut oil, is made from fresh coconut meat or copra and has a shelf life of up to five years. Refined coconut oil, on the other hand, is made from dried coconut flesh and will keep for up to eighteen months.
Coconut oil has a low melting point, which can make storing it in the summer tricky. It is recommended to store coconut oil in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or pantry, away from heat sources like ovens or direct sunlight. If you are using coconut oil in cooking, it is best to store it in a solid form, so it can be used in place of butter or other solid fats in pastries and desserts. However, if you live in a warm climate, you may find it challenging to keep your coconut oil from melting. In this case, you can try storing it in the refrigerator, which will cause it to solidify. Just be aware that it may harden and become difficult to scoop out of the container.
To prolong the shelf life of coconut oil and prevent it from turning rancid, it is important to use clean utensils when handling the oil and to store it in an airtight container. Seal the container securely when you are done using it to keep out air and outside contaminants. If you are storing coconut oil in the bathroom for skincare purposes, make sure to keep it away from the hot shower, so it doesn't melt.
Coconut oil has various uses, including cooking, skincare, and hair care. It can be used as a substitute for butter or oil in baking recipes, or it can be applied to the skin as a moisturizer. It is also a popular choice for cannabis infusion due to its high-fat content, which helps absorb cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Whether you are using coconut oil in the kitchen or as part of your beauty regimen, proper storage will ensure that you get the most out of this versatile product.
Using a Covered Pot Instead of a Slow Cooker
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Unrefined (or virgin) coconut oil is better for cannabis infusion because it has a higher fat content and retains more nutrients.
A common starting ratio is 1 ounce of cannabis to 1 cup of coconut oil. You can adjust this based on how strong you want the oil to be.
You can use a crockpot, slow cooker, instant pot, or a good old-fashioned saute pan.
Different cannabinoids and terpenes decarboxylate at different temperatures. THC degrades at high temperatures, so it is best to keep the temperature low.
You can use your infused oil for cooking or baking your favourite recipes, such as brownies or chocolate chip cookies. It can also be added to drinks or applied to the skin.
