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As the seasons change, whether you find yourself in the temperate climate of California or the brisk winters of Chicago, the cooler temperatures and holiday festivities often coincide with an increased susceptibility to germs and viruses. Unfortunately, sometimes you become the recipient of an unwelcome gift – illness. While taking vitamins, getting adequate rest, and maintaining a balanced diet are essential steps in recovering from the festive celebrations, there is another secret weapon to consider: turmeric. Integrating this powerful spice into your everyday regimen can provide a multitude of health advantages, including some that may not be immediately evident. One delightful way to harness the power of turmeric is by infusing it into a beloved classic – Hot Cocoa.
In the ancient medical tradition of Ayurveda in India, turmeric powder and juice have long been administered to individuals with various ailments, particularly those suffering from pain and inflammation. While the concept of “golden milk” has gained popularity on the internet and is often consumed with milk in India, it’s important to note that it may be more of an interpretation than an authentic classic. Chefs and culinary enthusiasts alike, however, are skilled at interpreting and reimagining flavors, and this creativity has led to the development of a unique and delightful fusion that combines the benefits of turmeric with the comforting warmth of hot cocoa.
The resulting concoction is not only delicious but also serves as an excellent conduit for reaping the full advantages of turmeric. By infusing it into hot cocoa, you create a beverage that is both soothing and invigorating. When you introduce the therapeutic qualities of cannabis into the mix, you elevate this beverage to an entirely new level. It becomes not only a delightful treat for your taste buds but also a vehicle for delivering the synergistic effects of THC and curcumin (the active compound in turmeric) in a more efficient and expedited manner than many other consumable forms.
To further enhance this infusion, the inclusion of black pepper and cardamom serves two essential purposes. Firstly, they enhance the overall experience, heightening the sensory elements of your journey. Secondly, they work in tandem with the turmeric, helping it work its magic within your body. Given that both THC and curcumin are fat-soluble compounds, the harmonious combination of these ingredients ensures that they interact seamlessly and provide you with the utmost benefit.
Incorporating this cannabis-infused turmeric hot cocoa into your wellness routine can be both a pleasurable and therapeutic experience. It not only warms you from the inside out during the colder months but also offers a holistic approach to bolstering your immune system and promoting overall well-being. As you savor each sip, you can take comfort in knowing that you’re indulging in a delightful beverage that marries tradition, flavor, and the potential for enhanced health benefits. Cheers to staying warm and well!
Cannabis-Enhanced Golden Hot Cocoa
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- 1 tablespoon of Demerara sugar
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric
- 3-5 black cardamom pods (OR use a toothpick dipped in essential oil, then in milk)
- A few twists from a black pepper grinder
- A ½ inch piece of fresh ginger
- ¼ cup of half and half (you can use any milk, whether dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ teaspoon of cannabis-infused coconut oil or butter*
- ⅔ cup of boiling water
In a mug, begin by adding the cocoa and sugar, setting it aside for the moment. If you have access to a milk frother, take the opportunity to gently crack the spices, excluding the turmeric, and add them to the mug along with the cocoa. Nonetheless, when a milk frother is unavailable, utilize a dry saucepan to gently toast the cardamom and pepper before heating the milk. It is imperative to exercise caution, ensuring the milk does not reach a boiling point, and avoiding direct exposure to an open flame.
While the milk is in the process of heating, take a separate step to bring the water to a boil. Subsequently, pour the freshly boiled water over the cocoa mixture, ensuring thorough stirring. Simultaneously, remove the milk from the heat source and incorporate the cannabis-infused oil and turmeric into it. Allow this concoction to stand for a brief moment before slowly and steadily pouring it over the cocoa mixture in your mug.
*Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil
In a meticulous process, begin by placing 1/4 cup of coconut oil into a clean mason jar, accompanied by the decarboxylated starting material. For raw cannabis, seal the container and heat it in an oven at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, while hash and wax require only 10 minutes of heating. This decarboxylation process is crucial for activating the cannabinoids.
Once the starting material is adequately decarboxylated, seal the mason jar and immerse it in a warm water bath for one hour. Subsequently, allow the jar to cool down to room temperature before placing it in the freezer overnight. The freezing step is vital for further cannabinoid extraction.
The following day, defrost the jar and return it to a water bath to heat through, ensuring that all the valuable compounds are infused into the coconut oil. If you are using raw cannabis, you may need to strain the material to remove any plant matter. However, if you are using a concentrate or hash, straining may not be necessary.
For a unique twist, you can enhance the flavor and effect by incorporating some boozy rum cream with the milk. This addition not only imparts a delightful taste but also adds a mild alcoholic element to the concoction. Enjoy this cannabis-infused hot cocoa as a soothing remedy when dealing with various discomforts, including inflammation-related issues like sinus problems and PMS symptoms.
