Mexican Popcorn

Mexican popcorn, also known as palomitas, is a popular snack that can be found at street vendors, markets, and festivals across Mexico. What sets it apart from traditional popcorn is the use of bold, vibrant seasonings that characterize Mexican food.

5 from 2 votes

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 6

Total Time 11

Course Snack

Cuisine Mexican

Servings

Calories 193 kcal

Ingredients

½ cup popcorn kernels
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Zest of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a few popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it with a lid. Once the test kernels pop, add the remaining kernels, cover, and shake the pot occasionally until the popping slows down. Remove from heat and transfer the popped popcorn to a large bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Drizzle the melted butter over the popped popcorn, tossing gently to ensure even coating.
Sprinkle the spice mixture over the popcorn, tossing again until the popcorn is evenly coated with the spices.
Grate the zest of one lime over the popcorn and toss to distribute evenly.
Taste the popcorn and add salt if needed.

Notes

❄️How To Store Leftover Popcorn

Store any leftover Mexican popcorn in an airtight container or a plastic bag at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days.

And, here's a little known secret - you can actually freeze popped popcorn to extend its storage time. To freeze leftover popcorn, first make sure that it's completely cool. Then, put it in a freezer-safe, airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing. Popcorn can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you're ready to eat your popcorn,take it out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you find that the popcorn has lost some of its crispness, you can easily refresh it by spreading it out on a baking sheet and heating it in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition

Calories: 193kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 12mgPotassium: 89mgFiber: 3gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 453IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 11mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Mexican Popcorn, taco popcorn