{recipe} Salty-Sweet Caramel Popcorn

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I had a major popcorn craving the other day. I was in a big supermarket and couldn’t find regular popcorn to buy; only microwave. In a HUGE store. That is a travesty because microwave popcorn has nothing on fresh-popped kernels from the stovetop. At any rate after hitting up a fancier store I bought some organic popcorn and set to work on handling that craving, and decided just to target all possible cravings in one go. Popcorn, check. Salt, check. Sugar, check.

I love things that are salty and sweet, and I love popcorn, so I love the way my Dad used to make caramel corn when I was a kid. This is his basic method but in later life I have learned to add a bit of salt. I have never liked caramel corn that was too sticky or crunchy so this method creates a palatable texture, takes less time, and uses 1 pot for everything. You don’t have to spend time cooking it in the oven, nor do you have to worry about cracking your teeth on crunchy caramel.

P.S. I have recently been introduced to the wonders of the Whirley Pop – if you are serious popcorn people, this will be the best 20 bucks you’ve ever spent!

RECIPE: Salty-Sweet Caramel Popcorn
Serves 2-4 for snacking.

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 Tblsp oil
  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Method:

  • Put oil and popcorn into a big pot and put a lid on. (If you have a pot with a clear glass lid, well that makes it a lot more fun.)
  • Turn heat on medium high. Keep your hand on the lid. When you start hearing popping, hold the lid down and shake the pot on the stove.
  • When popping is mostly done and gets slower, turn off the heat. Wait a minute or two before removing lid as corn will keep popping.
  • Remove popcorn to bowl and set aside. In same pot, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add sugar and salt and mix with a whisk. Heat until it boils. It will separate at first then it will become lighter in color and a bit foamy.
  • Turn off heat and pour popcorn into caramel, tossing to coat. Mix well and pour back into bowl.
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