Comforting, creamy pudding to soothe anxiety and emotional distressThis Lemon Balm & Vanilla Cannabis Rice Pudding is a creamy, soothing dessert that combines the calming properties of lemon balm and vanilla cannabis. Lemon balm is well-known for its anti-anxiety properties, promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system, while cannabis—specifically the CBN and THC content—can help reduce stress and enhance mood. The vanilla adds a rich, sweet flavor that complements the herbal notes of lemon balm, making it a perfect treat to wind down and soothe emotional distress.Key Terpenes & Compounds:Linalool (Lemon Balm) – calming, sedativeCBN (Cannabis) – relaxing, sedativeTerpenes from Cannabis – help modulate mood, stress, and anxietyVanillin (Vanilla) – antioxidant, soothing to the nervous system
Strainer (optional for removing lemon balm leaves)
Small bowl (for cannabis infusion)
Measuring cups and spoons
Serving bowls
Vanilla bean scraper (if using a vanilla bean)
Ingredients
For the Rice Pudding
1cupshort-grain white rice(or arborio for extra creaminess)
3cupsmilk(dairy or plant-based, such as almond or oat milk)
1tbsplemon balm leaves(fresh or dried)
1vanilla beanor 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓cupmaple syrup or honey(for taste)
1pinchsea salt
Cannabis oil or butter(adjust to desired potency, e.g., 10-20 mg of THC/CBN)
For Garnish (optional)
Fresh lemon balm leaves
Shaved chocolate or cinnamon
Instructions
Prepare the Rice Pudding Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and milk over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it starts to simmer, lower the heat and cook, uncovered, for about 30 minutes, stirring often until the rice is tender and the mixture is creamy.
Infuse the Lemon Balm
While the rice is cooking, in a small saucepan, bring a cup of water to a boil. Add the lemon balm leaves (if fresh, you can tear them for better extraction). Reduce heat to low, cover, and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain the leaves and discard them, then set the lemon balm infusion aside.
Add Flavor and Sweeten
Once the rice has cooked and softened, stir in the lemon balm infusion, vanilla (scraping the seeds from the vanilla bean or using the extract), maple syrup, and sea salt. Stir well and continue to cook for another 10 minutes until the pudding reaches a creamy consistency.
Add Cannabis Infusion
Remove the rice pudding from heat. Stir in the cannabis oil or butter and mix until fully incorporated. If you’re using cannabis butter, be mindful of how much you're adding to ensure your desired potency.
Cool the Pudding
Allow the rice pudding to cool for about 10 minutes at room temperature, then transfer it to serving bowls. You can serve it warm or refrigerate it for a chilled treat. If you refrigerate it, it will firm up more, creating a delightful custard-like consistency.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh lemon balm leaves, shaved chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. Serve and enjoy the soothing effects of this anxiety-reducing dessert.
Betsy's Infusion Notes:
⚠️ Cannabis Potency: Start with a lower dose of cannabis, such as 5-10 mg of THC or CBN per serving, especially if you're new to cannabis-infused foods. Adjust according to tolerance.🌿 Sweetness Level: You can adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your preference for sweetness. For a sugar-free version, use stevia or another sweetener of choice.🍃 Storage: Store any leftover pudding in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. It can be eaten chilled or reheated gently on the stove with a bit more milk to loosen it up.🍃 Flavor Boosts: Adding a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon can complement the flavor profile and enhance the soothing, warming effects.