There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the aroma of freshly popped popcorn wafting through the house. For me, it brings back memories of cozy movie nights with my family, where we would gather around the TV with bowls piled high with popcorn, a sprinkle of salt, and tons of laughter. Today, I’m excited to share a fun twist on this beloved snack that keeps it both budget-friendly and delicious: Cheap Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast!
Not only does nutritional yeast add a cheesy flavor without the dairy, but it also brings along a treasure trove of health benefits! I started making this snack when I wanted something crunchy that wouldn’t break the bank. Perfect for movie night or when I just need a crunchy munch, this popcorn is such a hit, and I bet it will be in your home too.
### What’s in Cheap Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast?
Let’s break down the star ingredients for this tasty popcorn:
Popcorn Kernels: These are the base of our snack! I prefer buying organic popcorn kernels to avoid additives and ensure a clean snack. They pop beautifully, and there’s just something satisfying about popping your own!
Nutritional Yeast: This magical ingredient packs a nutty, cheesy flavor that is perfect for us dairy-free folks (and honestly, even cheese lovers will enjoy it too!). It’s a fantastic source of B vitamins!
Oil: A little bit of oil helps the popcorn pop and allows the nutritional yeast to stick. I usually go for coconut or olive oil, depending on my mood.
Salt: Just a pinch (or more if you like) to enhance all those flavors! I sometimes experiment with flavored salts for an extra kick.
### Is Cheap Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast Good for You?
Absolutely! This snack is not just tasty, but also provides some great nutritional perks:
Popcorn Kernels: Air-popped popcorn is a whole grain that is high in fiber, which helps keep you full and aids digestion. It’s a great choice for an evening snack when you want to keep away from excess calories!
Nutritional Yeast: Loaded with B vitamins, including B12, nutritional yeast is a darling for vegans and vegetarians like myself. It can help boost energy levels and support your immune system. Plus, it adds that savory flavor that makes the popcorn irresistible.
Health Consideration: Keep in mind that while popcorn itself is a healthy snack, the oil and salt should be used in moderation to keep it heart-healthy. You can always adjust the amount according to your dietary needs.
### Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this oh-so-simple, deliciously cheesy popcorn, serving around 4 people:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 2 tablespoons coconut or olive oil
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– Salt to taste
### How to Make Cheap Popcorn with Nutritional Yeast?
Let’s get popping!
1. **Heat the Oil:** In a large pot, add your oil and let it heat over medium flame. If you’re using a stovetop, you can test if the oil is ready by dropping a few kernels in – they should pop!
2. **Add the Kernels:** Once the oil is hot, add the popcorn kernels to the pot. Cover with a lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
3. **Pop Away:** Give the pot a shake every now and then to ensure even popping. The popcorn is done when the popping slows down (about 2-3 seconds between pops).
4. **Season:** Once your popcorn is popped, immediately transfer it to a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and nutritional yeast while it’s still warm so that the seasoning sticks!
5. **Toss and Enjoy:** Toss everything together to make sure all the kernels are coated, then dive in!
### Popping Variations and Tips
Getting adventurous with your popcorn? Here are a few fun ideas:
– **Flavored Nutritional Yeast:** There are some incredible brands that offer flavored nutritional yeast like garlic or smoky cheddar that can change the flavor profile in an exciting way!
– **Spices Galore:** Add a dash of chili powder, paprika, or your favorite herbs for a unique twist!
– **Make It Sweet:** For a sweet variation, sprinkle some cinnamon and a touch of sugar instead of the nutritional yeast. You’ll have a sweet popcorn treat that’s perfect for an afternoon snack.
Once you try this inexpensive, delightful popcorn with nutritional yeast, I promise you’ll find it hard to go back to plain popcorn. Not only is it easy to make, but it also brings together health and taste in a snack that everyone will love.
I hope you give this recipe a whirl and enjoy it as much as I do! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share any fun modifications you come up with. Happy snacking!