Crunchy Chili Lime Popcorn

Popcorn is a beloved snack that has transcended from humble beginnings in movie theaters to a versatile treat enjoyed at parties, gatherings, or simply during a cozy night in. Among the myriad of flavors that have emerged over the years, Crunchy Chili Lime Popcorn stands out for its bold and vibrant taste. This delightful snack combines the heat of chili with the zesty brightness of lime, creating a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

Discover the vibrant flavors of Crunchy Chili Lime Popcorn, a deliciously bold twist on a classic snack. This recipe infuses heat from chili with the zesty brightness of lime for a thrilling taste experience. Perfect for movie nights or entertaining guests, this popcorn combines high-quality ingredients and cooking techniques to deliver an irresistible treat. Learn how to prepare this flavorful snack and impress friends and family with your culinary skills.

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Ingredients

1/2 cup popcorn kernels

3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil)

1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Zest of 1 lime

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a sweet-spicy balance)

Fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Pop the Corn: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add a few popcorn kernels and cover. Once those kernels pop, add the rest of the popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it again. Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning. When the popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, remove it from heat.

Prepare Seasoning: While the popcorn is popping, in a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lime zest, salt, and sugar (if using). This will be your spice mix.

Flavor the Popcorn: Immediately transfer the popped popcorn to a large bowl while it’s still warm. Drizzle with fresh lime juice and toss the popcorn to coat evenly.

Add the Seasoning: Sprinkle the spice mix over the popcorn while tossing to ensure an even coating. You may need to adjust the salt based on your taste.

Garnish & Serve: For a fresh touch, sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley over the top. Serve immediately in bowls or large platters for sharing!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4-6