Smoky Memphis BBQ Popcorn Delight
Experience the bold and fiery flavors of Memphis with this Smoky Memphis BBQ Popcorn Delight. This savory snack brings together the irresistible combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from sugar, perfectly complemented by the rich umami of Parmesan cheese. The addition of cayenne pepper provides a spicy kick that can be adjusted to your preference, making this popcorn a versatile treat for movie nights or parties. Drizzle with melted butter and elevate your popcorn game with a sprinkle of hot sauce for an extra zing. Inspired by the beloved recipes of the Neely's, this popcorn is more than a snack; it's a flavorful celebration of Memphis-style barbeque culture.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (none)
popcorn kernels
1/2 cup (none)
Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup (grated)
smoked paprika
1 tablespoon (none)
garlic powder
2 teaspoons (none)
kosher salt
2 teaspoons (none)
sugar
2 teaspoons (none)
fresh ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
butter, melted
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) (melted)
Instructions
1
Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Use just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pot. Test the oil by dropping in a few popcorn kernels; when they begin to pop, the oil is ready.
2
Pour the remaining popcorn kernels into the pot and cover it tightly with a lid. Shake the pot occasionally to prevent the popcorn from burning. Allow the popcorn to pop for approximately 5 to 8 minutes, or until the popping slows down significantly.
3
While the popcorn is popping, prepare the seasoning mix. In a small bowl, whisk together the grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, sugar, fresh ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4
Once popping has stopped, carefully remove the lid (watch for steam) and transfer the hot popcorn to a large serving bowl.
5
Drizzle the melted butter over the warm popcorn. Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the popcorn, starting with half and adjusting to taste. Toss the popcorn thoroughly to ensure even coating.
6
For an extra kick, feel free to drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the popcorn before serving.
7
Serve immediately and enjoy this smoky, spicy, and utterly delicious snack!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoky Memphis BBQ Popcorn Delight?
It is a savory snack that combines the bold flavors of Memphis-style barbeque, featuring smoked paprika, garlic, and Parmesan cheese on freshly popped corn.
How much popcorn kernels do I need?
You will need 1/2 cup of popcorn kernels for this recipe.
What type of oil is recommended for popping?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
Test the oil by dropping in a few kernels; when they begin to pop, the oil is ready for the rest of the kernels.
How long does it take to pop the popcorn?
It typically takes approximately 5 to 8 minutes for the popping to finish over medium heat.
Is this popcorn recipe spicy?
It has a spicy kick from cayenne pepper and optional hot sauce, but the heat can be adjusted to your preference.
What gives the popcorn its smoky flavor?
The smoky flavor comes from 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika.
Does this recipe include cheese?
Yes, it uses 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a rich umami flavor.
Why is sugar included in a BBQ popcorn recipe?
Two teaspoons of sugar are added to provide a hint of sweetness that balances the savory and spicy Memphis-style spices.
How do I prevent the popcorn from burning?
Shake the pot occasionally while the popcorn is popping to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
When should I add the butter?
Drizzle 1/4 cup of melted butter over the warm popcorn immediately after transferring it to a serving bowl.
Should I mix the spices together first?
Yes, whisk together the Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, sugar, pepper, and cayenne in a small bowl while the corn is popping.
Can I add hot sauce to this recipe?
Yes, for an extra zing, you can drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the popcorn before serving.
What kind of pot should I use?
A large, heavy-bottomed pot is recommended to ensure even heat distribution.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of garlic powder.
Is the cayenne pepper mandatory?
No, the 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted or omitted based on your heat tolerance.
What type of salt is best for this recipe?
The recipe specifies 2 teaspoons of kosher salt for the seasoning mix.
How do I ensure the seasoning coats the popcorn evenly?
Toss the popcorn thoroughly after drizzling the butter and sprinkling the seasoning mix.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
It is best served immediately while warm and crunchy, though it can be stored in an airtight container for a short period.
What inspired this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the barbeque culture of Memphis and the cooking style of the Neely's.
How much butter is required?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of melted butter, which is equivalent to half a stick.
Is this recipe considered an easy snack?
Yes, it is categorized as an easy recipe suitable for movie nights or parties.
Can I use black pepper?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper is included in the spice blend.
What should I do if there is steam when I open the lid?
Carefully remove the lid after popping stops and be cautious of the escaping steam to avoid burns.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients total, including the optional cayenne pepper.
Is this a savory or sweet snack?
It is primarily a savory snack with smoky and spicy notes, though it contains a small amount of sugar.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
The tags include popcorn, snack, Memphis-style, barbecue, spicy, savory, and easy recipe.
Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?
Yes, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese is used in the seasoning mix.
How much seasoning should I apply?
Start by sprinkling half of the seasoning mix, then adjust to your personal taste.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it is a versatile treat that works well for large gatherings or party appetizers.