Hemp Seed: A Versatile Culinary Ingredient

Hemp seeds, also known as hemp hearts, are the edible seeds of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). Though closely related to the cannabis plant, hemp seeds contain negligible amounts of the psychoactive compound THC, making them a safe and legal ingredient for culinary use.

Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient China and other parts of Asia, prized for its durable fibers, which were used to make textiles, ropes, and paper. Hemp seeds have also long been a part of traditional diets in many cultures, particularly in Asia and Eastern Europe. Today, hemp is grown commercially in Canada, the United States, China, and parts of Europe, with Canada a major producer and exporter of hemp seeds renowned for their nutritional profile and culinary versatility.

Hemp seeds are a versatile ingredient with a mild, nutty flavor that works well in both sweet and savory dishes. They are commonly sprinkled over salads and grain bowls for a nutty crunch, baked into breads, muffins, and cookies, or blended into smoothies and protein shakes as a source of plant-based protein. They also appear in vegan and vegetarian dishes, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine dips and spreads, and occasionally Indian curries and chutneys.

Hemp seeds pair well with fruits such as berries, citrus, and stone fruits; leafy greens, root vegetables, and cruciferous vegetables; herbs and spices like basil, dill, cumin, and coriander; dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, and milk; and whole grains like quinoa, farro, and wild rice.