Popcorn showed up on the human culinary record about 4,000 years ago and has maintained its popular status as a healthful, gluten-free and fiber-filled snack. While every day is popcorn day for some, there is in fact an official holiday honoring it — January 19 is National Popcorn Day!
Below are two of my favorite ways to enjoy popcorn. Each half cup of kernels serves at least four people, so these recipes easily can be used for parties or a family movie night.
CinnaPop
Ingredients
- ½ cup popcorn kernels
- 3 to 4 tablespoons canola oil
- ¼ cup loosely packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Pour enough oil to cover the bottom of a large pot and place over medium-high heat.
- Drop one or two kernels into the heated oil and, once they start to pop, add the rest of the kernels and brown sugar.
- Cover and shake the pot continuously over the heat until kernel popping has slowed, about two minutes.
- Remove from heat, carefully remove cover, transfer to a large bowl and add cinnamon. Toss thoroughly for even coverage and enjoy!
ParmaPop
Ingredients
- ½ cup popcorn kernels
- 3 to 4 tablespoons canola oil
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Pour enough oil to cover the bottom of a large pot and place over medium-high heat.
- Drop one or two kernels into the heated oil and, once they start to pop, add the rest of the kernels.
- Cover and shake the pot continuously over the heat until kernel popping has slowed, about two minutes.
- Remove from heat, carefully remove cover, transfer to a large bowl and add parmesan, and salt if desired. Toss thoroughly for even coverage and enjoy!