If you’re human, you're not immune to the call of a salty, savoury snack. If you’re a food lover, then you know that since the inception of the salty-sweet combination, the popularity award has unwaveringly tilted in its favour.
Popcorn has long been a movie theatre companion and (sadly) the microwave has made popcorn an easy snack. But with all of the toxins, chemicals, artificial flavours, and nutrient-depleting calories in those bags, that corn should be hanging its cob in shame.
Real, organic, non-GMO popcorn, though? That’s a different story. Made in an air popper, kernels of this ilk are minimally processed whole grains charged with fibre, protein, and a healthy dose of antioxidants known as polyphenols (anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer soldiers).
Its ease of preparation, fantastic flavour, and low-calorie ranking make this a kernel worth considering. Sweet or savoury, now you know why it just popped up a few notches on our radar.
South of the Borders Popcorn
¼ cup organic, non-GMO popcorn kernels
½ packed tsp of very finely grated lime zest, preferably organic *Grate only the green part and avoid the bitter white pith
1 Tbsp kosher salt
¼ + 1/8 chile powder
1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1. Grate the lime zest, preferably with a microplane so that it’s very fine. Spread it out evenly in a non-stick or cast iron pan over low heat. Move it around occasionally, crumbling it as it dries. It should only take about 5 minutes to dry out.
2. Meanwhile, air pop your kernels and set the popped corn aside in a medium sized bowl.
3. Next, combine the dried, crumbled zest with the salt and chile powder. Stir until it’s well combined. (It may help to use your fingers to rub the ingredients together to incorporate the flavours.)
4. Drizzle the olive oil over your popcorn and sprinkle with as much seasoning as you like. Toss with your hands to combine. If you like it a little more smoky and spicy, sprinkle in a little more chile powder.
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Popcorn
¼ cup organic, non-GMO popcorn kernels
1 Tbsp, plus 1 tsp coconut oil
1 Tbsp, plus 1 tsp organic honey
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ – ½ tsp sea salt, to taste
1. Prepare the popcorn kernels in an air popper and set aside in a medium bowl.
2. Meanwhile, melt the coconut oil in a small pot over low heat or in the microwave. Once melted, gradually add it into the honey whisking until combined. Drizzle this mixture over the popcorn.
3. Sprinkle with sea salt (start with ¼ tsp) and toss with your hands to combine. Sprinkle in the cinnamon using a small sieve and toss gently, once more. Taste and add more salt and cinnamon if you prefer.
