Carmel Corn
Carmel Corn Recipe from Peru - Popped Corn with Brown Sugar and Vanilla
Introduction
Carmel Corn is a delicious and addictive snack that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunch of popcorn. This classic treat is perfect for movie nights, parties, or just as a special treat for yourself.
History
Carmel Corn has been a popular snack in the United States for decades. It is believed to have originated in the Midwest, where it was often made at home and sold at fairs and carnivals. The combination of sweet caramel and salty popcorn quickly became a favorite among both children and adults.
Ingredients
- 0.5 qt (473 ml) popped corn
- 2 cups light brown sugar
- 2 sticks oleo
- 0.5 cup white corn syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
How to prepare
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, butter, and white corn syrup.
- Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla, salt, and baking soda.
- Blend the ingredients together and pour over popped corn, stirring well.
- Place the mixture in a 250°F (121°C) degree oven for 40 minutes.
- Spread the mixture on sheets of waxed paper and allow it to cool.
Variations
- Add nuts or dried fruit to the Carmel Corn for added flavor and texture.
- Use different flavors of extract, such as almond or maple, to change the taste of the Carmel Corn.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
- Allow the Carmel Corn to cool completely before serving to ensure that it is crunchy and delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carmel Corn as a snack at parties, movie nights, or as a special treat for yourself.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the caramel reaches the correct temperature.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use margarine instead of butter in this recipe.
- Honey or maple syrup can be used as a substitute for white corn syrup.
Make Ahead Tips
Carmel Corn can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Carmel Corn in decorative bowls or bags for a fun and festive presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Carmel Corn pairs well with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Carmel Corn in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place in a 250°F (121°C) degree oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Carmel Corn contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Carmel Corn contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Carmel Corn contains approximately 10 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of Carmel Corn contains approximately 2 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Carmel Corn is not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.
Alergens
Carmel Corn contains dairy and corn products.
Summary
Carmel Corn is a sweet and crunchy snack that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
Summary
Carmel Corn is a classic snack that combines the sweetness of caramel with the crunch of popcorn. This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Carmel Corn tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. The pages were yellowed and fragile, filled with handwritten notes and splatters of ingredients past. As I carefully turned the pages, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of this particular recipe.
I remember sitting at the kitchen table, surrounded by the comforting smells of baking bread and roasting meat, as my great-grandmother regaled me with tales of her own culinary adventures. She spoke of learning to cook from her own mother, who had learned from her mother before her. Each generation passing down their knowledge and love of food to the next.
It was during one of these storytelling sessions that my great-grandmother mentioned the recipe for Carmel Corn. She described how she had come across it in a small town in the Midwest, where she had stopped to rest during a long journey. The sweet and crunchy treat had captivated her taste buds, and she knew she had to learn how to make it herself.
With a twinkle in her eye, my great-grandmother confessed that she had spent days in the town, watching the local women prepare their version of Carmel Corn. She had taken notes, asked questions, and even managed to convince one of the women to share her secret recipe.
As I read through the recipe in the old cookbook, I could almost hear my great-grandmother's voice guiding me through the steps. The ingredients were simple: popcorn, brown sugar, butter, and a dash of salt. But it was the technique that made all the difference.
I followed the instructions meticulously, popping the corn kernels until they were fluffy and golden brown. In a separate pot, I melted the butter and sugar together, creating a rich and sticky caramel sauce. And then came the most important part – combining the two to create a sweet and savory snack that was impossible to resist.
As the Carmel Corn baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its intoxicating aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. My great-grandmother's recipe had been passed down through the generations, and now it was my turn to share it with my own family.
When the Carmel Corn was finally ready, I carefully poured it into a large bowl and called my children and grandchildren to the table. As they eagerly dug in, their faces lit up with delight as they tasted the delicious treat. I couldn't help but smile as I watched them enjoy something that had brought me so much joy over the years.
And so, the tradition continues. The recipe for Carmel Corn may have come from a small town in the Midwest, but it now holds a special place in the hearts of my family. It has become a symbol of love, connection, and the power of passing down knowledge from one generation to the next.
As I close the old cookbook and tuck it back into its rightful place on the shelf, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of cooking that has been passed down to me. And I know that as long as there are curious minds and hungry hearts in my family, the tradition of Carmel Corn will live on for generations to come.