Classic County Fair Kettle Corn
Experience the nostalgic flavors of a classic county fair with this delightful kettle corn recipe! Perfectly sweetened and crunchy, this kettle corn will bring you back to those carefree summer days. Ideal for family movie nights, game day snacks, or any time you crave a sweet treat, this kettle corn is simple to prepare and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Ditch the plain popcorn for this caramel-coated delight, and watch it vanish within minutes!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
unpopped popcorn
1/2 cup (none)
white sugar
1/4 cup (none)
vegetable oil
1/4 cup (none)
seasoning salt
1/4 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
In a large, heavy-duty pot with a lid, pour in the vegetable oil, making sure it covers the bottom of the pot evenly.
2
Sprinkle the unpopped popcorn kernels over the oil, followed by the white sugar and seasoning salt (if using).
3
Cover the pot with the lid, slightly ajar to allow steam to escape, and place it over medium heat.
4
As the kernels begin to pop, gently shake the pot back and forth to keep the popcorn moving and prevent burning. Continue shaking until the popping sounds become less frequent, about 2-3 seconds apart.
5
Once the popping slows significantly, carefully remove the pot from heat and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.
6
Pour the kettle corn into a large bowl and let it cool for a moment before enjoying. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic County Fair Kettle Corn?
It is a nostalgic, perfectly sweetened, and crunchy popcorn snack that recreates the flavors of a traditional county fair.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
This recipe requires 4 simple ingredients: unpopped popcorn, white sugar, vegetable oil, and seasoning salt.
What type of oil is best for kettle corn?
Vegetable oil is recommended because it has a high smoke point and an even distribution.
How much popcorn kernels do I need?
You will need 1/2 cup of unpopped popcorn kernels.
What kind of sugar should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of white sugar to create the classic sweet glaze.
Is seasoning salt mandatory?
No, the 1/4 teaspoon of seasoning salt is optional but recommended for extra flavor.
What equipment is needed to make this?
You will need a large, heavy-duty pot with a lid.
Why should the lid be kept slightly ajar?
Keeping the lid slightly ajar allows steam to escape, which prevents the popcorn from becoming soggy.
What heat setting should I use?
You should place the pot over medium heat to avoid burning the sugar.
How do I prevent the kettle corn from burning?
Gently shake the pot back and forth continuously once the kernels begin to pop.
How long do I cook the popcorn?
Cook until the popping sounds slow down to about 2-3 seconds apart.
What should I do once the popping slows down?
Carefully remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover kettle corn in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and crunch.
Is this recipe easy to prepare?
Yes, it is a simple preparation that is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
What is the description of the final texture?
The kettle corn is perfectly crunchy and caramel-coated.
Can this be served at parties?
Absolutely, it is ideal for family movie nights, game day snacks, or any sweet treat occasion.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe is categorized under Lunch/Snacks.
How much vegetable oil is used?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of vegetable oil.
Does this contain cholesterol?
Based on the ingredients listed (oil, corn, sugar), this recipe is naturally cholesterol-free.
Can I use a microwave for this recipe?
This specific recipe is designed for a stovetop method using a heavy-duty pot.
Is this recipe family-friendly?
Yes, it is a family-friendly snack that children and adults alike will enjoy.
What is the primary flavor profile?
It is primarily sweet with a hint of salt, mimicking a caramel-coated delight.
How long should it cool before eating?
It is best to let it cool in a large bowl for a moment before enjoying to allow the sugar coating to harden.
Is seasoning salt the same as table salt?
Seasoning salt typically contains additional spices, but you can use regular salt if you prefer.
What prevents the sugar from sticking to the pot?
The vegetable oil and constant shaking motion help keep the sugar moving so it coats the corn rather than sticking to the pot.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume of popped corn.
What should I do if the sugar starts to smoke?
Immediately reduce the heat or remove the pot from the burner, as this means the heat is too high.
Does it contain protein?
Popcorn contains a small amount of plant-based protein, though it is primarily a carbohydrate-based snack.
Why is this called 'County Fair' kettle corn?
It is named after the traditional sweet-and-salty popcorn typically sold at outdoor fairs and festivals.