Popcorn Frenzy

Learn how to make popcorn in the comfort of your own home. After preparing the popcorn, season with December’s Superfood, herbs and spices, to boost the flavor while using less salt and sugar.

Nutrition Spotlight

• Popcorn is a whole grain and contains a significant amount of fiber unlike other snack foods such as chips or cookies.
• Peanut butter is a lean protein source, vegetarian, and provides potassium which lowers the risk for high blood pressure and risk of stroke.
• Chili peppers/spices contain capsaicin which is an antioxidant that contains numerous health benefits and also boosts metabolism.
• Herbs, such as rosemary, promote many neuro health benefits such as reducing anxiety, boosting memory, and headache relief.

Key Techniques & Helpful Hints

1. Alternative popping methods:

• Place kernels in brown paper bag (ensure it is large enough to accommodate the popped corn), fold closed and cook in microwave on a high power setting for 3-4 minutes
• Use an air pop popcorn machine. Slowly drizzle olive oil over popcorn and add seasoning while stirring.

2. Set up a popcorn making bar! Have bowls of popcorn ready and everyone can mix and match their favorite flavors, the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients:

For the Base Popcorn:

• 3/4 cup yellow popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons canola olive oil blend

For the Sweet & Savory Peanut Butter Popcorn:

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2/3 cup crunchy peanut butter

For the Rosemary Popcorn:

• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary

For the Chili-Spice Popcorn:

• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground paprika
• 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1-1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
•  1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Curry Popcorn:

• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

 Directions:

For the Base Popcorn (122 Calories):

In a large pan with a lid, add the oil and heat the pan over medium-high heat.

When the oil is hot add the corn kernels. Shake the pan and once it begins popping, place a lid to prevent popped corn from jumping out.

Shake the pan occasionally during the process and do not remove from heat until all kernels have popped.

When the popcorn is done, divide among bowls, sprinkle and toss with your favorite spice blend. Serving size is 1 cup.

For the Sweet & Savory Peanut Butter Popcorn (220 Calories):

Place whole recipe of popped popcorn from above in a large bowl. Set aside until ready to use. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

In a saucepot, combine sugar, salt, and honey over medium-high heat. Bring to a simmer until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat, add peanut butter and mix well.

Pour peanut butter mixture over the popcorn and toss well. Spread out the popcorn on a prepared baking sheet and allow the popcorn to cool completely.

Once cooled, break up the popcorn in bite-size pieces. Serving size is 1 cup.

Save it for later! Download the Popcorn Frenzy Recipe!

Check out more recipes on our blog!