When it comes to hemp, it’s all a matter of taste – literally. Different strains impart different flavors that can be grassy, lemony, minty, fruity, nutty, or all out herbaceous. This is due to terpenes, the naturally occurring organic compounds that give the plant its unique smell and taste. The flavor profiles of hemp are many, which make for a great opportunity to dabble in some culinary creativity.

Since everyone has their preferences, sometimes the best way to find a good fit when it comes to food pairing is to start with noticing the flavors that stand out, and using that at your launching point. For example, of the hemp tends to have a more lemony flavor, then start your journey with citrus. If it’s grassy, go for earthy, ‘green’ flavors found in vegetables, or if it’s more forward with herbal notes, try pairing it with fresh, classic herbs like parsley, rosemary, basil, thyme, or mint.

cbd and food

Mitchell Ebert, owner of Mitchell’s Medicinals, talking to CT Caster of Thyme Bandit about using our products in his foods.

While hemp flowers can be used in a variety of culinary applications, our sublingual drops can be used in many ways as well. For those who do not like the taste of CBD but still want to reap it’s many health benefits, our new flavorless Cooking and Customizing CBD oils are perfect for use in the kitchen, or in creating your own topical essential oil blends. Regardless, CBD is now more versatile than ever to incorporate into your daily routine.

Here’s some food for thought as you explore your palette. While extensive heat can break down the beneficial terpenes, cooking with it using low heat (or no heat) is the way to go. “Using sublingual CBD drops in a finishing oil is a great way to add it to your favorite dishes,” says CT Caster of Thyme Bandit Personal Chef Service located in Philadelphia. “My favorite ways to incorporate CBD is in emulsions, like making a salad dressing or baking using low heat, since these methods help keep the beneficial properties in tact.”

As far as flavors to pair with, Caster notes that to some, CBD oil can have an earthy or minty flavor which can be hard to hide if someone doesn’t like the taste. In that case, working with those flavors and not against them are your best bet. “Adding something tasty and sweet like maple syrup or honey are good choices, as are turmeric, garlic, or lemon.” Whether you prefer it on its own, or as a finishing touch to a meal, it’s easy to make CBD part of a healthy daily routine.

To learn more about our sublingual drops (original, or with turmeric), click here.