Chilli popcorn is a fun and spicy twist on your favorite snack! It’s crispy popcorn tossed with a zesty chili seasoning that gives each bite a little kick.
Perfect for movie nights or a cozy gathering, this popcorn is sure to spark some smiles. I love sneaking a few extra handfuls when I make it—it’s just too good to resist! 🌶️🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Popcorn kernels: Fresh kernels make the best popcorn. I recommend using white corn for a light texture or yellow corn for a bit more crunch. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-popped popcorn, but keep an eye on the seasoning as they may already be salted.
Chili powder: This is where the spice comes from! Feel free to substitute with taco seasoning or curry powder for different flavors. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount or try a milder paprika instead.
Butter: While I like unsalted butter for better control over salt, you can use olive oil or coconut oil for a different taste. Both add unique flavors and are great for popping too!
Cayenne pepper: If you love heat, go for it! If not, you can simply omit it or reduce the amount to keep things mild. A dash of black pepper can also add a nice kick without overwhelming spice.
How Do I Get Perfectly Popped Popcorn?
Popping popcorn can be tricky if you’ve never done it before! Here are some tips for success:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution. This helps prevent burning.
- Don’t skip shaking the pot occasionally while popping. This distributes heat and prevents some kernels from burning while others remain unpopped.
- Listen carefully as the popping slows. If you wait too long, you might burn the popcorn, which nobody wants!
Following these tips can lead to a perfectly fluffy batch of popcorn that’s ready to be seasoned!
Chilli Popcorn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels (or about 12 cups popped popcorn)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for popping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chilli popcorn will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare. Most of the time is spent popping the corn, which is super easy. You can whip this up for movie night or a quick snack in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Pop the Corn:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add a few popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it with a lid. Wait until the kernels pop—this means the oil is hot enough! Once they pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels in an even layer. Put the lid back on, reduce the heat to medium, and give the pot a gentle shake from time to time to prevent burning.
2. Finish Popping:
Keep an ear out for the popping sounds. Once the popping slows down to about 2 seconds between pops, take the pot off the heat. Carefully remove the lid to avoid steam, and transfer all the fluffy popcorn to a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Chilli Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if adding), salt, and sugar. Mix well until everything is nicely combined. This chili butter is where the magic happens!
4. Coat the Popcorn:
Now it’s time to make the popcorn tasty! Drizzle the chili butter mixture over the popcorn. Use a spatula or your hands (make sure they are clean!) to toss the popcorn gently until all the pieces are coated evenly with the mixture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can sprinkle in more chili powder or salt if you like it spicier or saltier.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious, spicy chilli popcorn is now ready to enjoy! Serve it right away for the best crunch and flavor. Perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy your snack time!
Can I Use Microwave Popcorn for This Recipe?
While you can use microwave popcorn, it’s best to stick with freshly popped kernels to control the seasoning better. Microwave popcorn is often pre-buttered and salted, which may not give you the right balance of spices for this recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Chili Powder?
If you don’t have chili powder, you can use a mixture of ground cumin, paprika, and a little cayenne for a similar effect. Alternatively, taco seasoning can work in a pinch for a flavorful kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. However, popcorn can lose its crunch, so it’s best enjoyed right after making it!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. This will keep your chilli popcorn delicious and fully vegan while maintaining the rich flavors!