Popped: Guilt-free popcorn

Guilt Free Snack Recipes

I have a confession to make. I’m having a love affair with popcorn. Its crunch, smell and versatility make it the perfect Netflix and chill partner on a Friday night. This confession may come as a shock to some, but I’m 99% sure most readers are either currently munching on, thinking about, or in the process of making some popped corn. Relationships definitely take work and compromise, and while there’s a kernel of truth to that, this corny treat is pretty versatile and good for mixing things up to achieve tasty sensations. However, flavour and heavy caloric intake don’t necessarily need to coincide when it comes to this air-popped delight. By spicing things up you can eat all you want without the guilt.

Over the past couple weeks I’ve been shaking things up when it comes to my own popcorn recipes at home and I feel these mixtures are really going to pop with anyone looking to try something new.

Note: The preparation method of your popcorn is up to you. I’ve been using a microwave-safe bowl specifically made for popping corn—air popped, stovetop and other popping procedures work just fine.

Paprika perfection

This is seriously the most spicy-sweet treat that you can prepare for yourself in under 10 minutes. I’m thinking it should be rated “R” for “Real-good.” A combination of paprika, BBQ-flavoured rice crackers, sugar and a hint of salt deliver an on-point snack for your viewing pleasure this weekend.

Ingredients: vegetable oil, popcorn, paprika, brown sugar, sea salt, BBQ flavoured rice crackers.

Instructions:
Microwave 1/3 cup of popcorn and 2 Tbs of vegetable oil for 2:15.
In a bowl, mix paprika, brown sugar, sea salt, and crushed BBQ flavoured rice crackers.
Sprinkle toppings and enjoy!

Perky pop

Ok, I don’t think anyone is prepared for this percolated concoction of caffeine and corn, but it’s now or never. Usually when we think of popcorn we think of spicy, sweet and salty flavours, but bitter and sweet is a good look too and I can attest this is addictive. Skip a latté and get with this coffee-flavoured deliciousness.

Ingredients: Maple syrup, coconut oil, coffee grounds.

Instructions:
Microwave 1/3 cup of popcorn, 1 Tbs of coconut oil for 2:15.
Drizzle 2 Tbs of maple syrup on popcorn.
Top with coffee grounds and enjoy!

Savoury snackage

I’m all about a balanced diet, but I’m pretty sure this comfort food recipe could substitute for dinner. With spices like rosemary, garlic and summer savoury you’ll swear you’re eating dinner. Pair this with a glass of red wine and a lighthearted comedy and you’re set.

Ingredients: Rosemary, summer savoury, garlic, sea salt, pepper, olive oil.

Instructions:
Microwave 1/3 cup of popcorn and 2 Tbs of olive oil for 2:15.
In a bowl, mix rosemary, garlic, sea salt, summer savoury and pepper.
Sprinkle toppings and enjoy!

75/25

Brown sugar on popcorn has been something I’ve become famous for within my own circle of friends; if there’s a potluck or movie night I bring my basic (at best) culinary skills to the table with this sweetly addictive treat. However, in the spirit of keeping things satisfying without highjacking your blood sugar, I’ve modified the recipe by incorporating 3 parts stevia mixed with 1 part brown sugar.

Ingredients: Brown sugar, stevia, cinnamon, sea salt, vegan butter substitute.

Instructions:

Microwave 1/3 cup of popcorn for 2:15.
Melt 2 Tbs of butter substitute or use olive oil.
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, stevia, cinnamon and sea salt.
Add melted butter substitute or oil, sprinkle toppings and enjoy!