Pairing Cannabis-Infused Drinks with Food – Herbal Oasis

By Tyler Edge

Pairing Cannabis-Infused Drinks with Food

Cannabis-infused drinks come in many shapes and sizes, from teas and sodas to wines and cocktails. For each type, the flavors are different, as are the effects. This creates tons of versatile choices to be paired with food.

Types of Cannabis-Infused Drinks

When it comes to cannabis-infused drinks, the possibilities are endless. Here’s a quick breakdown of the basic categories you may want to try: 

  1. Teas and Herbal Infusions: These are light and refreshing, just right for salads or seafood.
  2. Cannabis-Infused Wines: Rich and full-bodied, ideal for heavy courses such as steaks or stews.
  3. Sodas and Sparkling Waters: These offer a bubbly twist that complements spicy or tangy dishes.
  4. Cocktails: Crafted with various flavors, they can be matched with a wide range of foods from appetizers to desserts.

Basic Principles of Pairing

Successful pairing involves balancing intensity, acidity, and sweetness between the drink and the food.

Match the food with the intensity of the drink: A full-bodied cannabis wine pairs nicely with a rich Beef Stew, while a light herbal tea goes better with that fresh salad.

Balance acidity and sweetness. A sweet cannabis soda can offset some heat in spicy chicken wings, just like an acidic drink, such as lemonade, enhances the flavors of a creamy dish.

Flavor Profiles and Balance

Flavor profiles are essential to harmonious combinations.

Complementary Flavors

Combine flavors that are similar to boost each other. For instance, a citrusy cannabis drink is well paired with lemon-based dishes.

Contrasting Flavors

Contrast flavors for an exciting experience. A sweet drink can balance a salty or spicy dish effectively.

Pairing Cannabis Drinks with Appetizers

The meal begins with the pairing of appetizers and appropriate cannabis drinks. Here are some ideas to try: 

Light and Refreshing Pairings

  • Green Salad: Pair with cannabis-infused lemonade for crispness.
  • Ceviche: Try with cannabis-infused soda water for a bubbly tang.

Rich and Savory Combinations

  • Beef or Chicken Skewers: Balance with cannabis-infused red wine.
  • Bacon-Wrapped Scallops: Explore with cannabis-infused brown ale.

Main Course Pairings

You can also complement your main courses with the appropriate cannabis drink. These combinations are tried and true: 

Seafood and White Meat Dishes

  • Grilled Shrimp: Enjoy with cannabis-infused iced tea.
  • Chicken Alfredo: Pair with a light cannabis-infused white wine.

Red Meat and Hearty Meals

  • Steak: Classic pairing with cannabis-infused red wine.
  • Beef Stew: Cozy up with cannabis-infused hot chocolate.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

  • Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Complement with cannabis-infused herbal tea.
  • Veggie Burger: Add zing with cannabis-infused ginger ale.

Dessert Pairings

Elevate your dessert experience by matching it with the perfect cannabis drink.

Sweet and Fruity Pairings

  • Fruit Salad: Enjoy with cannabis-infused fruit punch.
  • Fruit Tart: Enjoy with cannabis-infused rosé wine.

Luscious and Decadent Pairings

  • Chocolate Cake: Fantastic combo with cannabis-infused hot cocoa
  • Cheesecake: Savor with a floral cannabis drink, elderflower infusion

Innovative Flavors and Experiments

Experiment with these bold flavor combinations for an experience never to be forgotten.

  • Coconut Ice Cream: Enjoy with a cannabis-infused margarita.
  • Spiced Pumpkin Pie: Discover with cannabis-infused ale.

Host a Cannabis-Infused Party

Hosting a dinner party can elevate your cannabis-infused drinking experience even more. Here are some quick tips to consider: 

  1. Craft a Diverse Menu: Include options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
  2. Educate Guests: Inform them about the effects of each drink.
  3. Start Small: Begin with small servings to gauge tolerance levels.
  4. Create a Relaxed Atmosphere: Set up comfortable seating areas for guests to enjoy their pairings leisurely.

Pair Cannabis-Infused Drinks With Food 

Pairing cannabis-infused drinks with food can give you a new way to enjoy the effects. Not only will you get all the benefits of cannabis, but you’ll also get a unique culinary experience out of it. 

Whether you’re planning a dinner party with friends or enjoying a meal by yourself, try some of these tasty suggestions for cannabis drink pairings.