Now that thanksgiving is over, we really should be post healthy, low-fat, low-calorie recipes for a little while before we get into the Christmas recipes. But I've had quite a few requests for this recipe, and we like to keep our readers happy.
This recipe came about after our dad made a comment about how a childhood friend (or college roommate or cousin's boyfriend...I can't really remember) of his used to eat popcorn. He said they used to drizzle bacon drippings over it as we usually do with butter. And since everything is better with bacon, I just had to try it.
But drizzling flavor on popcorn means there is some left without. So I started using the bacon grease to pop the popcorn on the stove. Every kernel gets flavored!
Some warnings. Bacon grease burns more easily than vegetable oil. Use a lower heat than you normally would. Also, bacon grease has a tendency to spatter. Keep kids away from the stove when popping bacon popcorn.
Bacon Popcorn
2 Tbsp. bacon grease
1/4 c. popcorn kernels
salt, to taste
In large pot, melt bacon grease over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels and shake pan to distribute.
Cover pot with lid slightly ajar to let steam escape but not so much that grease spatters everywhere.
After popping has started, carefully shake pan occasionally. When popping slows down, remove from heat. Add salt, return lid, and shake to distribute salt while holding lid on.
Popcorn and bacon grease?? Wow, now you're speaking my language LOL! Seriously, we save all of our bacon drippings, run them through a cheesecloth and store in the fridge to use instead of other oils for cooking (especially for frying or scrambling eggs). I think it really helps bring down the overall cost of bacon to use ALL of it without wasting the fat, especially since butter is so expensive.
ReplyDeleteI will definitely have to try bacon popcorn... today! Two of my favorite foods combined? oh, yeah. I’m getting dangerously fat just thinking about it!