CBD Hash-Infused Gazpacho: A Refreshing Summer Recipe

Introduction

Gazpacho is a delicious cold soup originating from Spain, particularly appreciated in the southern regions of the country. Traditionally made with tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers, it is enjoyed in the summer for its freshness and vibrant flavors. Today, many enthusiasts of healthy and creative cooking seek to revisit this classic recipe by incorporating new and original ingredients. Among them, CBD Hash is increasingly finding its place in light and flavorful culinary preparations.

In this article, we will explore in detail:

  • The legal specifics of CBD Hash in Switzerland.
  • Key points to consider regarding the composition and quality of CBD Hash.
  • The steps to prepare a CBD Hash-infused gazpacho, with tips and tricks for a successful recipe.
  • The advantages and limitations of such an infusion in terms of taste and potential effects.

Each piece of information mentioned is based on reliable and proven sources: Swiss legal texts, scientific studies, and recognized laboratory reports on the composition and use of legal cannabis in food.

What is CBD Hash?

CBD Hash is a preparation derived from industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.), with a deliberately reduced THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content to comply with Swiss legislation. THC is the most well-known molecule for its psychotropic effects, while CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychotropic cannabinoid reputed for its calming properties and potential action on numerous biological processes [Andre et al., 2016, Frontiers in Plant Science, 7, 19].

What is “Hash”?

The term “Hash” comes from “hashish,” which is a compressed or pressed form of cannabis plant resin. In the case of CBD Hash, this resin comes from legal hemp flowers, selected for their low THC content (< 1% in Switzerland) and their richness in other cannabinoids, notably CBD. Hash is created by separating the trichomes (small resinous glands) from the rest of the plant before being compressed to form a compact paste. In this form, it is easier to handle and dose for various uses, including culinary.

Swiss Legislation on CBD Hash

In Switzerland, cannabis legislation is governed by the Narcotics Act (LStup, RS 812.121). This law sets the authorized THC thresholds for a hemp-based product to be considered legal. Today, as long as the finished product contains less than 1% THC, its commercialization is tolerated, provided that other regulations related to public health and labeling are respected [Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)].

Thus, CBD Hash, if derived from industrial hemp plants cultivated in accordance with legal provisions, can be freely sold and consumed in Switzerland, as a raw material or culinary ingredient. However, it is essential to ensure the product’s origin and quality, for example by checking laboratory reports provided by the brand or distributor.

The Benefits of CBD Hash in Cooking

The Properties of CBD

CBD has been studied for several years for its possible relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects [Iffland & Grotenhermen, 2017, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139-154]. Although no definitive health claims are authorized without the approval of competent authorities (e.g., the FOPH in Switzerland or the European Food Safety Authority), many consumers report a feeling of relaxation without experiencing the characteristic intoxication associated with THC.

In cooking, CBD can be appreciated for its slightly earthy and vegetal taste, which can sometimes pair well with savory or sweet dishes. In a gazpacho, the vegetal notes of CBD Hash can complement the acidity of the tomato and the freshness of the cucumber, offering a pleasantly balanced range of flavors.

The Advantages of Infusion in a Cold Dish

Unlike other recipes where CBD Hash is heated to be decarboxylated (to convert CBDA into CBD), gazpacho does not require intense cooking. However, it is possible to perform a light decarboxylation beforehand to further activate the CBD. The most common method is to gently heat the crumbled hash in the oven at about 110-120 °C for about 30-40 minutes [Logan et al., 2020, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 5(4), 272-281]. This step is not imperative but can increase the bioavailability of CBD.

In a cold soup, CBD Hash infuses upon contact with fats (olive oil) and natural acids (tomatoes, lemon, etc.). This can improve the solubility of certain compounds and allow slight activation of CBD, but to a lesser extent than with heat. It is therefore advisable to add a small heating step if you wish to benefit fully from the effects of cannabidiol.

Selection and Preparation of CBD Hash

Checking Quality and Compliance in Switzerland

Before using CBD Hash, it is fundamental to verify:

  1. The THC content: must remain below 1% in Switzerland.
  2. Possible residues of pesticides or heavy metals: ideally, consult an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory report.
  3. The presence of residual solvents: some hashes are obtained through extraction requiring chemical solvents. Precise analyses ensure an absence or a residual rate below the limits set by regulations [Ordinance on Foodstuffs and Utility Articles (RS 817.02); Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO)].

A quality product should display a detailed cannabinoid profile (CBD, CBG, etc.), certified by an independent third-party laboratory. Serious companies do not hesitate to provide this type of information on their labels or online.

Decarboxylation (Optional)

As mentioned earlier, CBD is largely present in its acidic form (CBDA) in the raw plant. To convert it into active CBD, the plant material is generally heated at a moderate temperature. This releases the carbon dioxide linked to the acid and forms cannabidiol. Without this step, part of the CBD’s potential may remain untapped.

However, in a cold preparation like gazpacho, it is entirely possible to skip this step if you are more interested in a flavor note than a specific effect. In this case, the crumbled hash is simply integrated into the mixture. This integration nonetheless imparts a slight hemp taste to the dish.

Recipe for CBD Hash-Infused Gazpacho

Let’s now move on to the part that interests us: the step-by-step preparation of a CBD Hash-infused gazpacho. This recipe is inspired by the traditional Andalusian version, with a cannabidiol twist.

Ingredients for 4 People

  • 800 g of ripe tomatoes (ideally vine or beefsteak tomatoes)
  • 1 medium cucumber or ½ long cucumber
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 sweet onion or ½ red onion
  • 1 garlic clove (optional, according to your preference)
  • 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional for a little zest)
  • 1 to 2 grams of CBD Hash compliant with Swiss legislation (with THC content < 1%)

Note on the Quantity of CBD Hash

The amount of CBD Hash can vary depending on your personal tolerance, the CBD concentration of the product, and the desired effect. It is recommended to start with a modest dosage (1 g maximum for the first time, spread over several servings) and adjust according to your preferences and the advice of a healthcare professional if you have any doubts.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the CBD Hash (Decarboxylation if Desired)

  1. Preheat your oven to 110-120 °C.
  2. Finely crumble the CBD Hash onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake and let heat for 30 to 40 minutes.
  4. Allow the hash to cool before setting it aside.

If you do not wish to decarboxylate, you can simply crumble the hash by hand and keep it ready to be mixed into the gazpacho later.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Thoroughly wash all the vegetables.
  2. Remove the stem from the tomatoes and cut them into large pieces.
  3. Peel the cucumber (optional if the skin is thin, but many prefer to remove the skin for a smoother texture) and cut it into chunks.
  4. Remove the seeds from the bell pepper and coarsely chop.
  5. Peel the onion and garlic, cut them into pieces.

Step 3: Make the Gazpacho Base

  1. Place all the vegetables in a blender or a large container if using an immersion blender.
  2. Add the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Blend until a smooth texture is obtained. Some prefer a very smooth result, others a bit thicker. Adjust the blending time to your taste.

Step 4: Add the CBD Hash

  1. If you have decarboxylated the hash, reduce it to a powder or small granules using a mortar or your fingers.
  2. Incorporate it into your gazpacho base.
  3. Give a final light blend to distribute the material well, without overheating the mixture.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Let Rest

  1. Taste and possibly adjust with salt, pepper, vinegar, or lemon.
  2. Cover and place the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill well and allow the flavors to meld.

Presentation and Tasting

  1. Serve the gazpacho in small bowls or glasses, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a few cubes of cucumber or tomato.
  2. You can also add whole-grain croutons for a crunchy touch.

A 24-hour rest in the fridge often enhances the flavor of the vegetables and allows the CBD Hash to better integrate into the texture. So consider preparing this gazpacho in advance if you are planning a special dinner or a convivial meal.

Precautions to Take

Dosage and Potential Effects

In Switzerland, the use of CBD is authorized as long as the THC content remains below the legal threshold (generally < 1%). Nevertheless, caution is advised:

  1. CBD is not psychoactive like THC, but it can cause slight drowsiness or a relaxing effect in some people [Iffland & Grotenhermen, 2017, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139-154].
  2. Avoid overdosing your preparation. Start with a modest amount of CBD Hash, especially if you are not used to consuming it.
  3. Consult a healthcare professional if in doubt or if you are on medication that may interact with CBD [FOPH, updated consultations on medicinal hemp, 2021].

Storage and Preservation

  • Gazpacho keeps for 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
  • Prolonged exposure to light and oxygen can degrade some CBD components. It is therefore preferable to store gazpacho and hash away from air, light, and large temperature variations.
  • Do not use hash that has exceeded the manufacturer’s indicated expiration date or a product that has become damp or shows signs of mold.

Respecting Legislation and Transparency

Even if CBD Hash is legal in Switzerland under certain conditions, it is important to remember that regulations can vary from country to country. If you plan to travel, check the rules in effect at your destination. Finally, if you serve your CBD Hash-infused gazpacho to guests, inform them of the presence of cannabidiol in the recipe, so that everyone can consume it knowingly.

Additional Tips and Variations

Personalizing Your Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a soup that lends itself to multiple variations:

  • Replace part of the tomatoes with watermelon for a sweet touch.
  • Add fresh herbs like mint or basil to enhance freshness.
  • Incorporate spices such as cumin or smoked paprika for a spicier edge.

Feel free to play with flavors to create a recipe that reflects you, while keeping the base of fresh vegetables and the measured addition of CBD Hash.

Enjoying with Cold Accompaniments

To turn this gazpacho into a complete meal, consider accompanying it with:

  • Garlic-rubbed toasted bread.
  • Marinated black olives.
  • A platter of light cheeses and assorted raw vegetables.

The combination of cold foods enhances the perception of the infused gazpacho’s flavors, without interference from high temperatures.

Using CBD-Infused Oil

If you prefer to avoid the step of directly integrating the hash, you can use a quality CBD olive oil, controlled and labeled according to Swiss standards. You then replace all or part of the classic olive oil with this infused oil. However, make sure to choose a product with a CBD concentration suitable for culinary use, so as not to exceed the desired amount of cannabidiol.

Understanding CBD Absorption Better

Factors Influencing Bioavailability

When CBD is consumed orally, it is partially metabolized in the liver before reaching the bloodstream. Thus, the oral bioavailability of CBD can be variable, estimated between 6% and 20% according to studies [Millar et al., 2019, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 10, 1365]. Among the factors influencing this rate:

  • The presence of fats: CBD is liposoluble, hence the importance of adding olive oil.
  • An empty or full stomach: digestion will differ depending on when you consume it.
  • Drug interactions: some medications slow down or speed up the degradation of CBD.

Beyond the composition of the gazpacho, the effect felt can therefore differ from person to person, and even from one tasting to another.

Possible Side Effects

Although CBD is often well tolerated, some side effects may occur:

  • Fatigue or drowsiness.
  • Temporary drop in blood pressure in some sensitive individuals.
  • Dry mouth.

In general, these effects remain mild and disappear when CBD consumption is reduced or stopped. It is advisable to stop consumption and consult a healthcare professional in case of persistent or concerning symptoms.

Conclusion

CBD Hash-infused gazpacho offers an original alternative to traditional cold soup. As a refreshing culinary preparation, it provides the opportunity to enjoy the unique taste of legal hash while benefiting from summer vegetables. Swiss legislation allows this use of hemp as long as the product is rigorously controlled and its THC content remains below the legal threshold of 1%. Therefore, it is a safe option for lovers of light dishes and innovative recipes.

Feel free to experiment with different dosages of CBD Hash to find the perfect balance between subtle hemp flavor and potential relaxing effect. As with any consumption of legal cannabis-based products, moderation is key: start with a small amount, evaluate your feelings, and adjust gradually.

By following the outlined method step by step—preparing the vegetables, integrating decarboxylated or non-decarboxylated hash, blending, chilling, etc.—you can enjoy a balanced, smooth, and refreshing gazpacho. This recipe illustrates how CBD Hash can be integrated into everyday cooking, without any therapeutic claims, simply for originality and taste pleasure.

Main Sources:

  • Narcotics Act (LStup, RS 812.121), Swiss Confederation.
  • Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH): Information on legal cannabis in Switzerland.
  • Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO): Regulations on pesticide and heavy metal residues.
  • Andre, CM et al. (2016). “Cannabis sativa: The Plant of the Thousand and One Molecules.” Frontiers in Plant Science, 7, 19.
  • Iffland & Grotenhermen (2017). “An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies.” Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139-154.
  • Logan et al. (2020). “Decarboxylation parameters for cannabis: A review of variable factors.” Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 5(4), 272-281.
  • Millar, SA et al. (2019). “A systematic review of cannabidiol dosing in clinical populations.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, 10, 1365.