recipe: caramel popcorn

Being a popcorn-lover, this is one of my absolute favorite treats. I usually make it for Christmas to give as gifts, but I didn't get around to it this year, so instead I had to just make it for myself...



Caramel Popcorn

1 T vegetable oil
1/2 c. popcorn kernels
1 stick unsalted butter
1 1/2 c. packed light brown sugar
1/2 c. light corn syrup
1/2 t. coarse salt
1/2 t. vanilla
1/2 t. baking soda

Pop the popcorn. (If you don't have an air-popper--and I don't--just heat the oil over medium in a big skillet/pot. Add 3-4 kernels, cover, and wait until they pop. When they do, pour in the rest of the kernels and shake the pot until the popping stops.) Pour the popcorn into a big bowl.

Melt the butter in a pot (about 3 qt size). Add sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil over moderate heat, stirring. Clip a candy thermometer to the edge, and let boil without stirring, until it reaches 300 F. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and baking soda, then pour over the popcorn and stir quickly. Spread the mixture over a baking pan and let cool. Eat!