Cannabis seeds are rapidly emerging as an intriguing ingredient for recipes and meal plans. Derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, these small seeds pack a nutritional punch without causing psychoactive effects. Free of THC, the compound responsible for marijuana’s high, cannabis seeds instead harbor protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Their pleasantly nutty, earthy taste works well in both sweet and savory dishes. For those pursuing plant-based diets or hoping to cut back on meat, cannabis seeds offer new culinary possibilities. This complete guide will cover everything you need to know about safely cooking with this unique superfood.
What are Cannabis Seeds?
What exactly are cannabis seeds? Why should you think about buying marijuana seeds? Sometimes called hemp seeds, cannabis seeds are best known for producing marijuana. However, unlike the actual marijuana flower and leaves, the seeds themselves contain very low THC, eliminating intoxicating potential.
The seeds form in the flowers of the female cannabis plant and are collected, dried, and cleaned once ripe. While whole cannabis seeds can be consumed, they are often shelled to reveal a tender white interior. The shell protects the integrity of the seed in storage but also boasts nutritional fiber. Both shelled seeds and whole seeds deliver nutritious, functional benefits when incorporated into recipes.
Benefits and Nutrition
Cannabis seeds offer a powerhouse of nutritional benefits. They are packed with protein, providing nine essential amino acids. As a complete protein source, hemp seeds can support muscle recovery, satiety, and sustained energy levels. The seeds also contain insoluble fiber to support digestive and heart health. Additionally, they provide essential fatty acids, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, and vitamins E, C, and a range of B vitamins. Their antioxidants support immunity and cell health. Overall, adding marijuana seeds can significantly elevate any recipe’s nutritional value.
How to Cook with Cannabis Seeds
When cooking with cannabis seeds, their nutty, subtly earthy flavor pairs nicely with both sweet and savory ingredients. Use shelled seeds or whole seeds in dishes like smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, trail mixes, salads, stir-fries, pestos and sauces, baked goods, pasta, rice, and more. Recommended additions are one to three tablespoons of seeds per serving.
Toasting or roasting intensifies their flavor; roast whole seeds at 300°F for 12-15 minutes until achieving a toasted appearance. Be careful not to burn them, as that elicits bitterness. Alternatively, toast shelled seeds briefly in a dry skillet over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes.
Sprinkle the toasted seeds onto items like salads, toast, and grain bowls for added crunch and contrasting texture. Blend raw shelled or whole seeds into items requiring no heat like smoothies, shakes, energy bites, nut butters, and dressings as well.
Recipes with Cannabis Seeds From breakfasts to snacks to main courses, cannabis seeds excel in sweet and savory recipes alike. Try adding seeds to your morning yogurt parfait topped with fruits and honey, blending them into tropical fruit smoothies, or sprinkling some onto a fresh berry salad. For lunch or dinner, experiment with vegetarian/vegan meatballs, burgers, or meatloaf using a base of cannabis seeds, or bake them into bran muffins, protein bars, or even bread. To make a nutritious trail mix full of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber, combine toasted cannabis seeds with nuts, dried fruits, and a touch of chocolate chips.
Play around with cannabis seeds’ versatility to create nourishing, plant-based recipes with a uniquely nutty, earthy element. They can be an easy, yet impactful hack for boosting nutrition, flavor, and texture in your favorite dishes.