At the beginning of June my family went on a quick weekend trip to Breckenridge, CO. The few times we have been there we have enjoyed perusing the used bookstore, Old Man Berkins, and tasting the vinegar and oil at the specialty oil store, Oil Fusion. On this occasion, the specialty oil store had samples of popcorn sprinkled with their truffle salt for customers to enjoy. I must say that it worked for my family – we now have a renewed interested in freshly made popcorn sprinkled with flavorful salts.
True, the pre-purchased microwave popcorn bags are easy. But did you realize that in about the same amount of time you can pop popcorn kernels in the microwave using only a microwave safe bowl and plate? You then get to customize your flavor, using actual butter and whatever topping you choose.
In addition to the truffle salt, we also really love the alderwood smoked salt that I wrote about in my homemade butter experiment. This week I tried mixing a variety of savory herbs and spices: celery salt, garlic powder, dried basil, and black pepper. The possibilities are endless – who knows, I may use pink sea salt, Creole salt, or another concoction next.
Savory Homemade Microwave Popcorn
½ teaspoon celery salt
¾ teaspoon dried basil
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ cup popcorn kernels
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
In a small bowl, mix together the celery salt, dried basil, black pepper, and garlic powder; set aside.
Place popcorn in a large microwave safe bowl and cover completely with a glass, microwave safe plate. Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes, or until the time between popcorn pops is about 3-4 seconds.
Using oven mits, remove the bowl from the microwave. Pour the butter over the popcorn, tossing to coat. Sprinkle on the salt mixture and toss to coat. Serve; makes 5 cups.
Note: if using an already flavored salt, use ½ teaspoon of the pre-packaged salt in place of the salt mixture above.
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