We were shattered last night after baby sitting a 14 month old, and so we sat down to watch a film. We fancied something sweet to eat but had nothing in. We therefore decided to make some toffee pop corn. It only took 10 to 15 minutes to make. I am usually lazy and just have a bit of icing sugar sprinkled on my pop corn, and so this felt really indulgent. I have a pop corn machine that I got in a January sale, but for years I just used to make it in a pan. Popcorn is a cheap, and sometimes, healthy snack. I often make it with a bit of salt and spices if I am craving crisps.
RECIPE
1 tbsp vegetable oil
150g pop corn kernels
100g sugar
75 ml of water
Big pinch of sea salt
75g unsalted butter.
METHOD
1. Heat the oil in a heavy based pan over a high heat. (or use your pop corn machine instead of steps 1, 2 and 3)
2. Add the popcorn kernels and put the lid on top.
3. Cook, shaking the pan regularly.
4. When the corn has stopped popping take off the heat and put the popcorn in a bowl. ( This takes 4 or 5 minutes). Don’t be tempted to take the pan lid off until it has finished popping or else it will be all over your kitchen.
5. Wipe the pan out to get rid of any oil or popcorn bits and return to the heat.
6. Pour in the sugar, water and salt.
7. Cook without stirring until the sugar has melted and has started to turn a deep caramel colour.
8. Stir in the butter until the caramel is smooth and glossy. It is still really runny. Take off the heat.
9. Return the popcorn to the pan and stir until evenly coated
10. Spread the popcorn out over a couple of trays for 15 to 20 mins and then serve in a bowl, bag or put in a dish or popcorn holder. I got my popcorn holders from the Pound shop in a two pack for £1. Making caramel used to frighten me a bit but this is an easy recipe.
