Buzz
One of the best aspects of cannabis is how it enhances the flavor of food. While there’s no wrong way to enjoy a meal while high, you can truly refine your experience, and we’re here to show you how.
Trust Your Sense of Smell
Typically, when selecting cannabis, most focus is placed on how certain strains will affect the consumer's feelings, rather than the aroma or taste. Leafly suggests that the key to optimizing scent and flavor pairings is choosing strains rich in terpenes, the natural compounds responsible for the distinct smells and flavors found in different strains.
While there are infographics that can give you a general idea of what flavors different terpenes may contribute, the most effective way to understand the taste of cannabis is by giving it a good sniff. If you're in a state with dispensaries, the best approach is to walk in and ask the friendly—and they’re almost always very friendly—budtender if you can take a whiff of the flowers. Get close and let your nose guide you to any delicious thoughts that come to mind.
The Power of Names
Many cannabis strains have names that don’t really hint at their flavors—Dr. Who, for example, tastes like pineapple, not the character himself—but some are pretty straightforward, like the juicy Pineapple Express, tangy Lemon Super Haze, or the zesty Agent Orange. (In other words, the ones named after fruits.) If something sounds appetizing, try it out and see what cravings it sparks.
Pair Them Right
When it comes to pairing flavors, you have two main approaches: harmonize them or contrast them. For instance, you might match Lemon Super Haze with a zesty lemon meringue pie, or use its sour, citrus flavor to elevate a delicate lobster tail or cut through the richness of a creme brulee. Sweet, earthy Girl Scout Cookies could easily be paired with actual cookies, but would also complement the savory depth of salted cured meats.
Chef Leather Storrs of Noble Rot pushes the boundaries by incorporating actual flowers into his culinary creations, crafting distinct multi-course infused dinners. In terms of flavor, Storrs has discovered that citrus notes pair wonderfully with fish, fruit, and greens. He also favors 'menthol and piney' strains for curing both fish and meat, as well as gin-based cocktails.
The great thing about this is that there's truly no wrong approach; pot almost always makes eating more enjoyable. These pairings should enhance the experience, not add stress. So if you start worrying about pairing the wrong snack with your joint, take another hit and grab a bag of Doritos. You can't go wrong with Doritos.
