Cannabis in the kitchen has come a long way from brownies and cookies. Today, adventurous cooks are experimenting with cannabinoids like THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin), which offers effects distinct from THC or CBD. Often described as uplifting and clear-headed, THCV has caught the attention of food lovers looking to bring a functional twist to their meals. When infused into oils, it becomes a versatile ingredient ready to enhance savory dishes, refreshing snacks, and even beverages.
The Appeal of THCV Oils in Cooking
Infusing THCV into oils allows for precise dosing and effortless incorporation into recipes. Unlike butter or baked goods, oils lend themselves to lighter fare and a broader range of cuisines. From a drizzle over roasted vegetables to a finishing touch on pasta, these oils add both flavor and function to everyday meals. The key, however, is to add the oil toward the end of cooking to preserve its integrity.
Recipe 1: Mediterranean Chickpea Salad with THCV Olive Oil
This plant-forward salad is hearty, protein-rich, and perfect for lunch. The THCV-infused olive oil adds an herbal depth while keeping the dish fresh.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup feta cheese crumbles
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 tsp THCV-infused olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Toss chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and parsley in a large bowl.
- Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, and THCV oil together.
- Pour over salad, mix gently, and top with feta.
- Chill for 15 minutes before serving.
Recipe 2: Creamy THCV Hummus Spread
Infused oils shine in dips and spreads, where they can be blended smoothly without losing potency. This hummus is simple, healthy, and versatile.
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1–2 tsp THCV-infused oil
- Pinch of paprika and salt
Instructions:
- Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth.
- Add THCV oil and pulse until incorporated.
- Garnish with paprika and serve with pita bread or veggies.
Recipe 3: Herbal THCV Tea Latte
Beyond savory meals, infused oils can also complement beverages. A tea latte with THCV oil makes for a soothing yet energizing ritual.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed green tea or chai tea
- ½ cup steamed oat or almond milk
- 1 tsp honey or agave
- ½–1 tsp THCV-infused coconut oil
Instructions:
- Brew tea and pour into a large mug.
- Stir in honey and THCV coconut oil.
- Top with steamed milk for a frothy finish.
This recipe highlights the flexibility of using infused oils in warm drinks without the heaviness of traditional cannabis edibles.
Cooking Tips for Success
- Start small: Measure carefully—especially with a new batch of infused oil. Potency can vary.
- Low heat: Add THCV oil as a finishing touch or stir it into cooked dishes after removing them from direct heat.
- Experiment: Try swapping infused oils into salad dressings, drizzles over pizza, or even baked potatoes for an elevated twist.
Closing Thoughts
Cooking with THCV-infused oils isn’t about creating meals that overwhelm—it’s about layering flavors and adding functionality to your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re stirring it into hummus, drizzling it over a Mediterranean salad, or blending it into a latte, THCV oils give home chefs a chance to explore cannabis in a new, approachable way.