Chili Lime Popcorn

This popcorn was created because of one simple little question. “Hey sweetie, where are those chili lime almonds that were in the cupboard?” Of course, the one thing that I happened to snack on that very afternoon is the one thing that my husband decided he wanted to snack on when he arrived home from work.  “Um, I dunno sweetie, maybe the boys ate them???” (she says with a sheepish grin….)  so, my slightly guilty mind is racing, trying to figure out how to recreate that spicy, crunchy lime flavor, without having to fess up that it was in fact me that ate them.  “What if I make chili lime popcorn?” I throw in hopefully.  The look I received was as doubtful as the thoughts in my head that this might actually work, but, being me, I forged ahead, and was just as surprised as Jim that this actually worked.  When you look at the ingredients, and see lime juice, you will probably get that same doubtful look on your face.  It kind of congers up a vision of slimy popcorn, not really that appetizing, right?  Well, for some karmic reason, it works.  You just need to have a wee bit of adventure in your heart, and a craving for that yummy chili lime flavor...!  If the flavours work for you, it is definitely worth a try.

Chili Lime Popcorn

8-10 cups freshly popped popcorn (popping instructions here)

1 lime (or 3-4 tbsp lime juice if you don't have fresh)

2-4 tsp chili powder (depending on your taste)

Salt to taste

Take your lime and roll it around on a hard surface (counter, cutting board) using fairly firm pressure with your hand.  This helps to release the juice from your lime. It also helps if your lime is room temperature. Cut lime in half thru the middle, and using a juicer, squeeze as much juice from the lime as you can, using both halves. 

Place about 1/3 of your popcorn in a large (very large!) bowl.  Using a teaspoon, use about 1/3 of the lime juice and sprinkle over the popcorn. Follow with 1/3 of the chili powder, and salt to taste. Repeat this process twice, so that the lime and spices are distributed throughout the popcorn. The more chili powder you use, the spicier it will be, so adjust to your taste.