Hey fam! Today, we're diving into the world of culinary cannabis by infusing heavy whipping cream using the innovative Mason Pot herbal infuser. This method is not only simple but also ensures that you get the most out of your cannabis, both in flavor and potency. So, let's get started with the process and see how we can transform ordinary heavy cream into a versatile, infused ingredient that can elevate your cooking to a new level.
Step-by-Step Infusion Process
Preparing the Cannabis
The first step in our infusion process involves preparing the cannabis. For this recipe, we're using about an eighth of cannabis flower. Begin by placing the flower directly into the Mason Pot jar. This jar is specifically designed for infusions, making it a perfect tool for this purpose. Once the flower is in, screw the lid on tightly and insert the thermometer probe. It's crucial that the probe touches the bottom of the glass to ensure an accurate temperature reading throughout the process.
Decarboxylation
Next, we place the jar in a toaster oven preheated to 240 degrees Fahrenheit. We'll keep it there for 40 minutes. This step is known as decarboxylation, a necessary process to activate the THC in the cannabis, which is the compound responsible for most of the psychoactive effects. The Mason Pot's temperature gauge is particularly useful here as it provides a precise temperature reading, ensuring that the cannabis is heated evenly and effectively.
Infusing the Cream
After the decarboxylation, you'll notice a change in the coloration of the cannabis. That's your cue to add a cup of heavy cream to the jar. We then employ a double boiler method to infuse the cream with cannabis. The Mason Pot jar comes with a silicone sleeve, acting like a built-in double boiler, which is quite handy. Set your device to maintain a temperature between 165 to 175 degrees Fahrenheit. We set ours slightly higher at 180 degrees to account for any temperature fluctuations. This setting is crucial as it prevents the cream from curdling while ensuring that the THC is infused efficiently into the cream.
During the infusion, which lasts about 60 minutes, it's important to occasionally swirl the jar gently. This prevents the cream from sticking to the sides and curdling. Keep an eye on the temperature and the consistency of the cream. You should see no boiling or curdling. If the temperature approaches 180 degrees, as it did at about 179 degrees during our process, simply adjust the heat slightly.
Finishing the Infusion
Once the infusion process is complete, remove the jar from the heat and let it cool. It's important to continue monitoring the temperature as the cream will still be infusing as it cools down. Remove the thermometer probe, wipe it clean, and then carefully open the jar. At this point, you should see a nicely infused heavy cream. To ensure that we capture every bit of the infused goodness, drop in the Mason Pot puck and use the press to press down firmly. This helps to extract every last drop of the infused cream. Next, pour the cream through a fine strainer to remove any residual plant material, ensuring a smooth and pure infusion.
Storing the Infused Cream
After straining, transfer the infused cream back into the Mason Pot jar for storage. This step is crucial as proper storage helps maintain the potency and flavor of the infusion. Make sure the jar is sealed tightly and stored in a cool, dark place to prevent any degradation of the active compounds.
Culinary Applications
Now that you have your infused heavy cream, the possibilities in your kitchen expand tremendously. Here are a few ideas on how to use your newly created ingredient:
- Infused Garlic Mushroom and Onion Cream Sauce: This rich and flavorful sauce is perfect for drizzling over steaks or stirring into a bowl of fresh pasta.
- Cocktails: Imagine the delight of sipping on a cocktail with a hint of cannabis. Infused heavy cream can add a creamy, luxurious layer to your drinks.
- Desserts: Use the infused cream to make decadent desserts like ice cream, mousse, or cheesecake that not only taste incredible but also offer the unique effects of cannabis.
The versatility of infused heavy cream is vast, and experimenting with different recipes can be both fun and rewarding.
Conclusion
Infusing heavy cream with cannabis using the Mason Pot herbal infuser is a straightforward process that yields a potent and versatile culinary ingredient. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a successful infusion that can be used in a variety of delicious and creative ways. Whether you're enhancing your favorite dishes or experimenting with new recipes, infused heavy cream is an excellent way to incorporate the benefits and flavors of cannabis into your cooking.
Thank you for joining me in this culinary adventure. Remember, the key to a great infusion is precision and patience. Enjoy exploring the endless possibilities that infused heavy cream has to offer, and happy cooking with the Mason Pot family!
