Spicy Popcorn Recipe

Picture this: You’re curled up on the couch, your favorite DIY project hosting on YouTube in the background, and in your hands is a bowl of the most addictively spicy popcorn you’ve ever tasted. Let me walk you through a snack experience that’s a total game-changer.

Snacks with attitude are my absolute favorite, and this Spicy Popcorn is no exception. I take the richness of butter and meld it with the bold flavors of smoked paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder, so that every popped kernel is bursting with zest.

This is popcorn to make you sit up and take notice.

Spicy Popcorn Recipe Ingredients

• Popcorn Kernels: Whole grain, high in fiber, promotes healthy digestion.
• Vegetable Oil: Source of healthy fats, aids in even popping.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, rich flavor, enhances other spices.
• Cayenne Pepper: Provides heat, boosts metabolism, rich in vitamin A.
• Garlic Powder: Adds savory umami, supports heart health, antibacterial properties.
• Butter: Adds creaminess, rich in vitamins A and D, enhances flavor.

Spicy Popcorn Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

How to Make this Spicy Popcorn Recipe

1. In a large saucepan, warm 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil on medium-high heat. Put 2 or 3 popcorn kernels in the oil and cover the saucepan.

2. After the test kernels have popped, put in the remaining 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels, distributing them evenly throughout the pot.

3. Put a lid on the pot, leaving it slightly ajar so that steam can escape, and shake the pot from time to time while the popcorn is popping.

4. As soon as the popping calms to an interval of a few seconds between individual pops, take the pot off the heat and tip the popcorn into a big bowl.

5. In a small bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt.

This will give you a seasoning mix that’s smoky, flavorful, and a bit spicy!

6. Pour the 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the popcorn and stir to mix thoroughly.

7. Distribute the spices evenly; toss spiced popcorn with the same enthusiasm you would use when tossing a salad. It will take about that long to do it well.

8. Adjust the taste and seasoning with added salt if required.

9. Serve the spicy popcorn right away for maximum crunch.

10. Keep any remaining food in an airtight container if you want it to stay fresh.

Spicy Popcorn Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan with lid
2. Stove or heat source
3. Measuring spoons
4. Measuring cups
5. Small bowl
6. Large bowl
7. Spoon or spatula for stirring
8. Airtight container (for storage, if needed)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use pre-popped popcorn for this recipe?A: Yes, you can use pre-popped popcorn. Just make sure it’s plain and without any kind of seasoning before you add the spice mix.
• Q: Is there a substitute for vegetable or coconut oil?A: Yes, you can use grapeseed oil or avocado oil instead. They work fine.
• Q: How do I adjust the spiciness level?A: To tone down the spice level, cut back on the cayenne pepper. To amp up the heat, add more cayenne or a pinch of chili powder.
• Q: Can I make this popcorn vegan?A: Yes, use a vegan butter alternative instead of the butter.
• Q: How do I store leftover spicy popcorn?A: Place uneaten portions in a container that seals in air and keep at room temperature for no more than 2-3 days. If you want to hang on to them for longer, either refrigerate or freeze.
• Q: Can I use an air popper instead of stovetop popping?A: You can definitely use an air popper. When you do, just add the spices and melted butter after popping.
• Q: How do I prevent burnt popcorn?A: Shake the pot vigorously as it pops on the stove, and listen attentively to tell when to turn the heat to low. The sound of the popping will go from a consistently loud pop, pop, pop to an uneven texture of sound, and then it will slow way down.

Spicy Popcorn Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Coconut oil or olive oil can be used in place of vegetable oil for varied flavors.
You can use regular paprika or chipotle powder in place of smoked paprika, both of which supply a different heat level and a different kind of smokiness.
Red pepper flakes can be used in place of cayenne pepper when what is needed is a different texture and a different kind of bite.
One can use granulated garlic or one minced fresh garlic clove in place of garlic powder.
Ghee or plant-based butter can be used to replace butter for a dairy-free option.

Pro Tips

1. For even coating, place the popcorn in a large resealable plastic bag or a large pot with a lid. Pour in the melted butter and seasoning mixture, then shake vigorously to ensure every kernel is coated.

2. Use clarified butter or ghee instead of regular butter to pour over the popcorn. This will add richness without making the popcorn soggy, as clarified butter contains less water.

3. To intensify the flavor, consider adding a dash of nutritional yeast to the seasoning mixture. It adds a cheesy, umami flavor that complements the smoky and spicy elements.

4. Ensure that your oil is hot enough before adding the popcorn kernels by testing with the initial two or three kernels as described. This helps prevent soggy popcorn and improves popping consistency.

5. For an added layer of flavor, consider replacing the water used when making the popcorn with chicken or vegetable broth. This infusion can further enhance the taste profile of your popcorn.