Cooking Oils Infused with Terpenes

Cooking oils are a kitchen staple, essential for frying, sautéing, baking, and more. But what if you could add an extra layer of flavor and aroma to your dishes? Enter terpene-infused cooking oils! These oils combine the versatile properties of traditional cooking oils with the unique characteristics of terpenes, offering a creative way to enhance your culinary creations. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits and uses of terpene-infused cooking oils and provide a few recipes to get you started.

Understanding Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive scents and flavors of different strains. While terpenes are commonly associated with aromatherapy and essential oils, they also hold great potential in the culinary world. By infusing cooking oils with terpenes, you can introduce new flavor profiles and aromas to your meals.

Benefits of Terpene-Infused Cooking Oils

There are a number of benefits to adding terpenes to your cooking oils:  

1. Enhanced Flavor: Terpenes can significantly enhance the taste of your dishes. For instance, limonene offers a citrusy note, while linalool provides a hint of floral sweetness. These additions can elevate the overall flavor profile of your food.
2. Aromatic Appeal: The aromatic properties of terpenes can make your dishes more appealing. The scent of a dish plays a crucial role in our overall enjoyment of food, and terpenes can add a delightful aroma to your culinary creations.
3. Versatility: Terpene-infused oils can be used in a variety of cooking methods, from frying and sautéing to drizzling over salads or mixing into marinades.
4. Natural Ingredients: Using terpene-infused oils means incorporating natural, plant-derived compounds into your meals, which can be a healthier alternative to synthetic flavorings.
5. Potential Health Benefits: Some terpenes are believed to have health benefits. For instance, limonene is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties, while linalool may help with relaxation. While more research is needed, these potential benefits add an extra layer of appeal to terpene-infused cooking oils.

 

 How to Infuse Cooking Oils with Terpenes

Infusing cooking oils with terpenes is a straightforward process. Here’s a basic method to get you started:

Ingredients:

• Your choice of cooking oil (olive oil, coconut oil, vegetable oil, etc.). Preferably, you want an oil that does not have an overpowering flavor.
• Terpene extract (start with a few drops, as terpenes are potent)

Instructions:

1. Choose Your Oil: Select a high-quality cooking oil. Olive oil and coconut oil are popular choices due to their versatile uses and health benefits. 
2. Add Terpenes: Add a few drops of your chosen terpene extract to the oil. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the terpenes are evenly distributed throughout the oil.
4. Store Properly: Store your terpene-infused oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and potency.

 

 How to Use Terpene-Infused Cooking Oils

If you’re not sure what infused recipe to start with, here are a few from the TBF team!

 

 

Sautéing and Stir-Frying

One of the easiest ways to incorporate terpene-infused oils into your cooking is by using them for sautéing or stir-frying. Here’s a simple recipe for a terpene-infused stir-fry.

Terpene-Infused Vegetable Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp terpene-infused olive oil (with limonene)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the terpene-infused olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, optionally with rice or noodles.

  

 

 

Salad Dressings

Terpene-infused oils can also be used to create flavorful salad dressings. Here’s a quick recipe for a terpene-infused vinaigrette.

Terpene-Infused Citrus Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp terpene-infused olive oil (with limonene)
• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp orange juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar, orange juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
2. Slowly drizzle in the terpene-infused olive oil while continuing to whisk until the dressing is well emulsified.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle over your favorite salad greens and toss to coat.

 

 

 

Baking

You can even use terpene-infused oils in baking to add a unique twist to your sweet and savory treats. Here’s a recipe for terpene-infused olive oil cake.

Terpene-Infused Olive Oil Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup terpene-infused olive oil (with linalool)
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of one lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the terpene-infused olive oil, milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

 

 

Tips for Using Terpene-Infused Cooking Oils

Before you get started, consider these pro tips: 

• Start with Small Amounts: Terpenes are potent, so start with small amounts to avoid overpowering your dishes.
• Pairing Flavors: Consider the natural flavor profiles of terpenes when choosing which to infuse in your cooking oils. Citrus terpenes like limonene are great for fresh, vibrant dishes, while more earthy terpenes like myrcene can complement hearty, savory recipes.
• Storage: Store terpene-infused oils in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency and freshness.

 

Where to Buy Terpenes

If you’re looking to experiment with terpene-infused cooking oils, it’s essential to start with high-quality terpenes. At Terpene Belt Farms, we offer a wide selection of pure, 100% hemp-derived Fresh Never Frozen® terpenes that can elevate your culinary creations. Visit our online shop to explore our range of terpenes and find the perfect match for you. 

 

Wrap-Up

Terpene-infused cooking oils offer an innovative way to enhance the flavor and aroma of your dishes. By incorporating these aromatic compounds into your culinary repertoire, you can create unique and delicious meals that are sure to impress. Start with small amounts, enjoy the process of exploring different terpene profiles, and elevate your cooking to a new level of flavor and aroma. Happy cooking!

 

 

FAQ

Can you use terpenes in food?

Yes, terpenes can be used in food to enhance the flavor and aroma of your dishes. Terpene-infused cooking oils are a great way to introduce these aromatic compounds into your meals.

Can you use terpenes to make edibles?

Yes, terpenes can be used to make edibles. Infusing terpenes into cooking oils and then using these oils in baking or other edible recipes can add distinctive flavors and aromas to your treats.

Are terpenes food grade?

Food-grade terpenes are safe for culinary use.

What oils have terpenes?

Terpenes can be infused into various cooking oils, such as olive oil, coconut oil, vegetable oil, and even hemp oil.

Is it safe to add terpenes to oil?

Yes, it is safe to add terpenes to oil, provided the terpenes are food-grade. Start with small amounts to avoid overpowering the flavor and ensure even distribution by mixing thoroughly.

What is terpene-infused oil?

Terpene-infused oil is a cooking oil that has been infused with aromatic compounds called terpenes. These oils can enhance the flavor, aroma, and potential health benefits of your dishes.

How to use terpenes in cooking?

Terpenes can be used in cooking by infusing them into oils and incorporating these oils into your recipes. You can use terpene-infused oils for sautéing, stir-frying, baking, or as a base for salad dressings and marinades.

How to make terpene oil?

Making terpene-infused oil is simple:

1. Choose Your Oil: Select a high-quality cooking oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil.
2. Add Terpenes: Add a few drops of food-grade terpene extract to the oil.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture well to ensure the terpenes are evenly distributed.

Store Properly: Store the terpene-infused oil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.