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Crispy Bacon Fat Popcorn

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A quick and easy snack that uses rendered bacon fat to create crispy, smoky, and buttery popcorn perfect for movie nights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (100g) popcorn kernels
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Chop the 6 slices of thick-cut bacon into small pieces. Place them in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until crispy and the fat is fully rendered—about 10-12 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the crispy bacon bits and set aside on paper towels to drain.
  2. Carefully pour off all but about 3 tablespoons of the bacon fat back into the pot. Leave the rest behind to avoid greasy popcorn. Turn the heat to medium-high, and add 3 popcorn kernels to the fat.
  3. Once those test kernels pop (this signals the fat is hot enough), add the remaining 1/2 cup (100g) popcorn kernels in an even layer. Immediately cover the pot with the lid.
  4. Shake the pot gently every few seconds to prevent burning and help kernels pop evenly. Listen carefully for popping sounds. When pops slow to 2-3 seconds apart, remove the pot from heat to avoid burning.
  5. Pour the hot popcorn into a large mixing bowl. Add the melted butter, crispy bacon bits, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss thoroughly to coat every kernel.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt or smoked paprika, then toss again.

Notes

Use a pot with a thick bottom to prevent bacon fat from scorching. Shake the pot every 10-15 seconds during popping to avoid burning and ensure even popping. Use only about 3 tablespoons of bacon fat to keep popcorn crispy, not soggy. Season immediately while popcorn is warm for best flavor adherence. Leftover popcorn can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat in a 250°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon fat popcorn, crispy popcorn, movie night snack, bacon popcorn, easy snack recipe, savory popcorn

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-bacon-fat-popcorn-recipe-easy-perfect-snack-for-movie-nights/