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When we put our microwave in storage (4 years ago) I remember having two small fears: how would we make Christmas dinner for 7-10 people and how would we make popcorn? Our holiday dinner worked out and popcorn was easily replaced as our shopping habits moved more towards local farms and away from the middle aisles of the supermarket.
We’ve been fortunate to be fed a supply of local popcorn in the last year and the simple pleasure of this great snack has once again returned to our life. There’s something magical about the sensual experience of making popcorn – the sound, the smell and the taste all overwhelm the senses.
Making popcorn is all about getting oil to the right temperature. It has to be hot; hotter than most are comfortable with.
I’m not a purist when it comes to popcorn but this combination is top-notch. It`s important to note that olive oil is used both to pop the popcorn and also as part of the flavor of the final product so don`t skimp on it (it`s used in place of butter).
Ingredients
Popcorn kernels (enough to form a single layer in the bottom of a large covered pot).
Olive oil (enough to cover the kernels twice – i.e. enough to make sure they are well submerged).
Salt
Clothbound cheddar (really old white cheddar will do but the harder the better) or parmesan shredded with a rasp or microplane (this is very important – don`t use a normal grater).
Cayenne. Be liberal.
Juice of a half lemon.
Directions
Heat the oil over medium-high until it`s almost smoking. It is ready when a single kernel placed in the oil pops.
Place the popcorn in the oil and cover the pot. Shake often so it doesn`t burn.
Spread the cheese over a plate.
Keep shaking popcorn.
Sprinkle cayenne on the cheese – distribute well.
Keep shaking the popcorn.
Squeeze the lemon on the cheese and cayenne. The liquid will be absorbed by the spice which will now stick to the cheese. Mix around.
Keep shaking pot till popping stops.
transfer popcorn to a large bowl with a slotted spoon) this will help void excess oil. IMMEDIATLEYtoss in the cheese mixture and stir well to incorporate.
