Eating a lot on Thanksgiving is fun, but it’s even more fun when you’ve got an enhanced appetite thanks to THC. Cannabis concentrates are ideal for celebrations during the holidays since they can either showcase a full spectrum of flavors and effects or just a specific few. Terpenes are the compounds responsible for making one strain of marijuana so different from the next, and they’re found in many types of concentrates as well. As with the flavor and odor compounds in wine, matching the terpenes in your dabs to the foods you plan to serve for Thanksgiving can elevate the entire experience. Here’s how to pair dabs with thanksgiving foods after a little investigation into their compounds.

What are Terpenes?

The compounds that give many plants their distinctive scents and flavors are known as terpenes. The citrus smell of oranges, the spiciness of basil, and the pine resin scent of rosemary are all due to the terpene family of chemicals. If you’ve ever tasted a cannabis concentrate and thought it tastes exactly like another food or drink, that’s because of terpenes. Much like you’ll taste anything from leather to gingerbread in a fine wine, you’ll find that full spectrum concentrates have a wide range of flavors to explore. Understanding the basic terpene profile of any cannabis concentrates you pick up for the holidays will help you pair them together with certain dishes to maximize their potential.

Common Terpene Pairings

Marijuana and other plants can have dozens of different terpenes, but various concentrates are often rich in one or just a few terpenes in particular. Some of the most popular compounds include:

• Nerolidol, a combination of citrus and pine that’s great for pairing with dishes like turkey or other rich foods. It can help combat the sleepy effects of tryptophan from the meats and cheeses since it’s mildly stimulating. Pineapple and many Island strains tend to be high in it.
• Linalool, a compound that helps give lavender its distinctive herbal smell. Found in strains like the aptly named Lavender Haze, this terpene is reported to create a calming effect. Try using strains high in it as a finishing touch to the Thanksgiving meal.
• Caryophyllene, a spicy and peppery terpene that’s great for pairing with dishes that can balance out its heat. Try Rockstar or Northern Lights for a dose of spice while enjoying pumpkin pie or to bring out those hidden flavors in the stuffing.
• Terpinolene, a compound giving Jack Herer and Pineapple Kush strains their iconic floral notes. It’s great for enjoying before the meal begins or alongside milder and creamier dishes like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole.
• Myrcene, which offers a unique roasted flavor that brings to mind both crispy cookies and browned roasts at the same time. Pair it with the turkey to make it taste even more roasted, or try making it part of the dessert tray to blend its classic flavors together with brownies and pies.

How to Find a Variety with the Right Terpenes

Of course, the varieties listed above are just a few of the many options for getting specific terpene blends. You can also find isolated terpenes to add to your cannabis concentrates to get exactly the flavor effects you want for a marvelous Thanksgiving. Check the listings on any concentrates you plan to buy for specific terpene information. If it’s not available, try searching the name of a strain + terpenes in Google to find profiles on the major flavor compounds.

With a little practice, you’ll become a skilled terpene mix master for any occasion. Here at DabsLabs, we have concentrates with every terpene combination and flavor profile to fit your meals. We’ll even help you with recommendations if you’re still not sure what to choose.