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Crispy Dark Side Activated Charcoal Gruyère Popcorn Mix

activated charcoal gruyère popcorn mix - featured image
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A quick and easy homemade snack featuring popcorn coated with activated charcoal powder and melted Gruyère cheese for a crispy, dark-hued, smoky, and nutty flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (90g) popcorn kernels
  • 1 teaspoon (about 2g) food-grade activated charcoal powder
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded aged Gruyère cheese
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted and foaming, add 3-4 popcorn kernels and cover with the lid.
  2. When the test kernels pop, add the remaining 1/2 cup popcorn kernels in an even layer. Cover and gently shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Listen for popping to slow to 2-3 seconds apart, then remove from heat immediately to avoid scorching.
  4. Pour the freshly popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl, leaving any unpopped kernels behind.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon melted butter, activated charcoal powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  6. Drizzle the seasoned butter evenly over the popcorn and gently toss with a wooden spoon or spatula to coat every kernel. Wear an apron or gloves to avoid staining.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the popcorn and toss lightly so it clings to the buttery coating. The residual heat will start melting the cheese slightly.
  8. Spread the popcorn mix on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let cool for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to crisp up.
  9. Optional: Warm the mix in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-4 minutes before serving to enhance the aroma and melt the cheese further.

Notes

Activated charcoal powder can stain surfaces and clothing; wear an apron or gloves when handling. Use medium heat and remove the pot promptly when popping slows to avoid burnt popcorn. Spread popcorn thinly on parchment to allow cheese to crisp without becoming greasy. For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and Gruyère with vegan cheese alternative. Reheat leftovers in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: popcorn, activated charcoal, Gruyère, snack, crispy, cheesy, homemade, easy, party snack, gluten-free

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/crispy-dark-side-activated-charcoal-gruy-e-re-popcorn-mix-recipe-easy-homemade-snack-ideas/