Grateful for Green: A Thanksgiving Menu with Cannabis Culinary Creations

As autumn paints the landscape with shades of gold and the comforting aromas of roasted turkey and spiced pumpkin pie fill the air, we've got something special for you. Welcome to "TH(C)anksgiving". Forget the usual pre-dinner 'walk' with your cousins. Instead, dive into a menu where your favorite Thanksgiving dishes get a little cannabis kick. It's all about blending the familiar flavors of the holiday with a touch of something new. Whether you're a seasoned canna cook or just exploring how to make weed edibles, this THC cookbook offers a unique blend of edible recipes that could rival any cannabis restaurant or weed restaurant out there.

Terminology and Resources

As we embark on this "TH(C)anksgiving" culinary journey, it's paramount to remember that these infused dishes are crafted for adults who are of legal consumption age in their respective regions. Cannabis edibles can pack a punch, and their effects can differ widely among individuals. If you're new to edibles or are uncertain about your tolerance, always begin with a modest portion. Wait to gauge its impact before indulging further. Safety and enjoyment should always go hand in hand!

Cannabis Cranberry-Pear Chutney

Cannabis Cranberry-Pear Chutney

Explore the realm of THC-infused snacks with this tantalizing blend of tart cranberries, sweet pears, and a cannabis twist. A must-add to any THC cookbook, it's an ideal companion for turkey or crackers.

Yield: Approximately 2.5 to 3 cups of chutney.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cannabis-infused honey
  • Zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • A pinch of salt

Items Needed:

  • Medium saucepan
  • Stirring spoon or spatula
  • Airtight container (for storage)

Steps:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready.
  2. Combine and Cook: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, diced pears, sugar, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries start to pop and the pears become tender, about 10-12 minutes.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cannabis-infused honey, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let it cool. The chutney will thicken as it cools. Transfer to a serving dish or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled or at room temperature. This chutney pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially turkey, and can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or toast. The chutney can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pumpkin Seed Pot Pesto

Pumpkin Seed Pot Pesto

This fresh pesto, with pumpkin seeds and cannabis-infused olive oil, showcases the finesse of cannabis cooking. It's a weed snack that captures the essence of the Thanksgiving season.

Yield: Approximately 1.5 to 2 cups of pesto

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup cannabis-infused olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Items Needed:

  • Food processor
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Airtight container (for storage)

Steps:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready.
  2. Blend Seeds, Basil, and Garlic: In a food processor, combine the toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh basil, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped.
  3. Add Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the cannabis-infused olive oil until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined.
  4. Add Cheese and Lemon Juice: Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then pulse again until everything is uniformly mixed.
  5. Season: Adjust the taste with salt and pepper.
  6. Store: Transfer the pesto to a serving dish or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestion: This versatile pesto can be spread on bread, stirred into pasta, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or used as a garnish for soups. The pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Flying High Turkey Gravy

Flying High Turkey Gravy

Delight in the richness of THC-infused gravy with this recipe. A gem in marijuana edible recipes, this gravy offers a depth of flavor with a hint of cannabis, complementing your Thanksgiving bird perfectly.

Yield: Approximately 4.5 cups of gravy

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups turkey drippings (or chicken broth if you don't have enough drippings)
  • 1/4 cup cannabis-infused butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage for added flavor

Items Needed:

  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Strainer (if using turkey drippings)

Steps:

  1. Prepare Drippings: If using turkey drippings, strain them to remove any solids. Ensure you have 4 cups. If short, supplement with chicken broth.
  2. Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the cannabis-infused butter over medium heat.
  3. Make the Roux: Whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste (roux) forms.
  4. Add Drippings/Broth: Gradually whisk in the turkey drippings or chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps.
  5. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Season and Flavor: Add salt and pepper to taste. If desired, incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs for an added layer of flavor.
  7. Serve: Pour the hot gravy alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or other dishes.

Serving Suggestion: Generously ladle over sliced turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing. Its rich and hearty flavor pairs seamlessly with various traditional Thanksgiving dishes. If using fresh herbs, ensure they're finely chopped to distribute the flavor evenly.

Double Herb Turkey Butter

Double Herb Turkey Butter

Transform your roasted turkey with this aromatic compound butter. A blend of cannabis and classic Thanksgiving herbs, it's a testament to the art of cooking with weed.

Yield: Approximately 1.25 cups of compound butter

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup cannabis-infused olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Items Needed:

  • Mixing bowl
  • Parchment paper or plastic wrap

Steps:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, blend the softened butter, cannabis-infused olive oil, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and lemon zest until thoroughly combined.
  2. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
  3. Shape and Chill: Transfer the compound butter onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Mold it into a log shape and wrap it securely. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until it solidifies.
  4. Apply: When ready to roast your turkey, generously rub the compound butter under the skin and all over the exterior of the bird.

Serving Suggestion: While this compound butter is ideal for roasting a turkey, it's also versatile. Use it to amplify the flavors of chicken, fish, or even as a spread on fresh bread. Ensure the herbs are finely chopped for even flavor distribution.

Not Your Grandma's Stuffing

Not your Grandma's Stuffing

We're taking stuffing from the sidelines to center stage with a twist that's as unexpected as that one cousin's new hairstyle. Infused with cannabis and packed with herbs, it's the stuffing that whispers, "Why be traditional when you can be unforgettable?"

Yield: Serves 8-10

Ingredients:

  • 8 cups of cubed day-old bread (a blend of sourdough and cornbread is recommended)
  • 1/2 cup cannabis-infused butter
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage, finely chopped
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Items Needed:

  • Oven
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking dish
  • Aluminum foil

Steps:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your chosen baking dish.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the cannabis-infused butter over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and translucent.
  3. Add Herbs: Incorporate the rosemary, thyme, and sage into the skillet, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Mix Bread and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture.
  5. Add Liquid: In a separate bowl, whisk the broth and beaten eggs together. Gradually pour this mixture over the bread, ensuring even coating.
  6. Season: Toss the mixture gently, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  7. Bake: Transfer the stuffing to the baking dish, pressing it down slightly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and crispy.

Serving Suggestion: Serve this stuffing hot, either as a complement to your roasted turkey or as a standalone dish. Its rich aroma and cannabis infusion will undoubtedly make it a standout at your Thanksgiving table. Ensure the bread is day-old for the best texture and absorption.

Mellow Mood Mashed Potatoes

Mellow Mood Mashed Potatoes

Step into the world of cannabis-infused restaurants with these creamy mashed potatoes. Enhanced with cannabis-infused butter, they offer a comforting side dish that showcases the art of making edibles.

Yield: Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1/2 cup cannabis-infused butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh chives or green onions for garnish

Items Needed:

  • Large pot
  • Small saucepan
  • Potato masher or electric mixer
  • Serving dish

Steps:

  1. Prep the Potatoes: In a large pot, place the potato chunks and cover with cold water. Season with a pinch of salt.
  2. Boil and Simmer: Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer until they're tender when tested with a fork, typically around 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain and Return: After the potatoes are cooked, drain them and place them back into the pot.
  4. Warm the Infusion: In your small saucepan, gently melt the cannabis-infused butter. Once melted, stir in the heavy cream or milk, warming the mixture but ensuring it doesn't boil.
  5. Mash and Mix: Pour your butter and cream mixture over the drained potatoes. Using your masher or electric mixer, mash the potatoes until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
  6. Serve with Flair: Transfer your mashed potatoes to your chosen serving dish. If you're feeling fancy, garnish with some freshly chopped chives or green onions.

Serving Suggestion: Pair these mashed potatoes with turkey, gravy, and other traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Their creamy texture and subtle cannabis infusion are sure to be a hit.

Cannabis Crust Cornbread

Cannabis Crusted Cornbread

A Southern classic meets cannabis culinary expertise. This cornbread, with its golden crust and cannabis butter infusion, stands out as a unique side dish.

Yield: 8-10 servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/3 cup cannabis-infused butter, melted (plus a bit extra for pan greasing)
  • 2 large eggs

Items Needed:

  • 8-inch square baking pan
  • Two mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Toothpick or skewer

Steps:

  1. Heat Things Up: Preheat your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C).
  2. Butter Up: Using your cannabis-infused butter, generously grease your 8-inch square baking pan.
  3. Mix the Dry: In one of your mixing bowls, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good whisk.
  4. Combine the Wet: In your other bowl, mix together the buttermilk, melted cannabis-infused butter, and eggs. Whisk until it's all smooth and combined.
  5. Merge and Mix: Pour your wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir them together, but be careful not to overdo it – just until they're combined.
  6. Bake and Wait: Transfer your batter into the greased baking pan, making sure it's spread evenly. Pop it in the oven for 20-25 minutes. You'll know it's ready when a toothpick or skewer comes out clean from the center and the top is a lovely golden brown.
  7. Cool and Cut: Once baked, let it cool for a bit before diving in.

Serving Suggestion: Slice the cornbread into squares and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with chili, soups, or as a side to your main Thanksgiving dishes. The cannabis-infused crust adds a unique flavor and texture to this classic bread.

Baked Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Baked Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

This vibrant salad offers a fresh perspective on how to make a weed edible that's both nutritious and refreshing. Roasted beets, tangy goat cheese, and a cannabis-infused dressing come together in harmony.

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup cannabis-infused olive oil (for dressing)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (like arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for garnish

Items Needed:

  • Baking sheet
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Large salad bowl
  • Whisk

Steps:

  1. Prep and Roast: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out the beet slices on a baking sheet, giving them a gentle drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Pop them in the oven and let them roast for about 25-30 minutes. You'll know they're done when they're tender and have a slight caramelized edge. Once done, set them aside to cool.
  2. Whisk the Dressing: In your small mixing bowl, combine the cannabis-infused olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Give it a good whisk until it's well-blended.
  3. Toss and Assemble: In your large salad bowl, gently toss the mixed greens with half of your freshly made dressing. Lay out the cooled roasted beets on top, followed by a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese and your choice of toasted nuts.
  4. Dress and Garnish: Finish off by drizzling the remaining dressing over the top. If you're feeling fancy, garnish with some fresh herbs.

Serving Suggestion: This salad is the perfect palate cleanser, offering a refreshing contrast to the richer Thanksgiving dishes. The sweet and earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, and the hint of cannabis in the dressing make it a standout side dish that's sure to get the table talking.

Stoned Fruit and Apple Cider

Cannabis-Infused Apple Cider Punch

Refresh your "TH(C)anksgiving" with this unique cannabis-infused drink. A harmonious blend of apple cider with cherries and peaches, it's a standout in the realm of cannabis-infused drinks.

Yield: Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups apple cider
  • 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
  • 1/2 cup cannabis-infused honey
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/2 cup mixed stoned fruits (like cherries and peaches), pitted and diced
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 4-6 cloves
  • Slices of fresh apple, cherries, and peaches for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Items Needed:

  • Large pitcher
  • Stirring spoon

Steps:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready.
  2. Combine and Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the apple cider, sparkling water, cannabis-infused honey, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, and diced stoned fruits. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Add Spices: Introduce the cinnamon stick and cloves to the mixture.
  4. Adjust Potency: Modify the amount of cannabis-infused honey based on your desired level of potency.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the punch for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Just before serving, add ice cubes to the pitcher and give it a final stir. Pour into glasses and garnish with slices of fresh apple, cherries, and peaches.

Elevated Greens & Garlic

Garlic Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Experience the fusion of rustic Brussels sprouts and aromatic garlic, subtly enhanced with cannabis. These sprouts are more than a side dish; they're a conversation starter, showcasing the best of weed cooking.

Yield: Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Items Needed:

  • Baking sheet
  • Large bowl
  • Stirring spoon or spatula

Steps:

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  3. Toss Sprouts: In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with cannabis-infused olive oil and minced garlic until well coated.
  4. Arrange and Season: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Roast: Place in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes or until they are tender and crispy on the outside.
  6. Serve: If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.

Serving Suggestion: These greens, with their aromatic garlic and cannabis infusion, bring a fresh twist to the traditional Brussels sprouts, making them a standout at any festive gathering. Pair them with your main course or enjoy them on their own for a unique taste sensation.

    Before the Naptime Rush...

    From the first hint of cannabis-infused cranberry chutney to the last bite of Elevated Greens & Garlic, we've journeyed through a Thanksgiving like no other. Now, as you set out to recreate these dishes, we eagerly await your culinary masterpieces. Whether you've added your own flair to the Stoned Fruit Apple Cider or stayed true to our recipes, your festive creations are bound to be the talk of the table.

    As we celebrate with gratitude and good food, let's not forget the importance of responsible enjoyment. Here are some key takeaways to ensure a memorable and safe "TH(C)anksgiving":

    1. Clear Communication: Always label your cannabis-infused dishes. This transparency ensures guests are aware and can choose their portions wisely.
    2. Mindful Consumption: Especially if you or your guests are new to edibles, start with smaller servings. It's always possible to have seconds, but moderation is key to a pleasant experience.
    3. Child and Pet Safety: Ensure your infused dishes are stored securely, away from curious kids and pets. Using child-proof containers or designating a separate area for these dishes can be helpful.
    4. Patience is a Virtue: The effects of edibles can be delayed compared to other consumption methods. Give it time, and remember it's better to wait a bit than to overindulge.
    5. Knowledge is Power: Stay updated on local cannabis regulations and best practices. If you're diving into creating your own infusions, understanding processes like decarboxylation can make all the difference.