Millie's Popcorn Balls

Προετοιμασία

Υλικά

Η μέθοδος

Βήμα προς βήμα

1. 1

   Pop the popcorn kernels using your preferred method, such as a stovetop popper or an air popper. Transfer the popped corn to a very large, heatproof bowl, removing any unpopped kernels.

   Περίπου 5 λ.

   Σημείωση του μάγειρα: Using a large bowl is key, as it makes it much easier to coat the popcorn evenly without making a mess.

2. 2

   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, water, and white vinegar.

   Περίπου 1 λ.

3. 3

   Set the pan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved.

   Περίπου 3 λ.

4. 4

   Once boiling, add the cream of tartar and salt, then clip a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan, ensuring the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom.

   Περίπου 1 λ.

5. 5

   Continue to boil the syrup, without stirring, until it reaches the soft-crack stage, between 135-140°C (275-285°F).

   Περίπου 10 λ.

   Σημείωση του μάγειρα: Avoid stirring as it can cause sugar crystals to form. If needed, gently swirl the pan to ensure even heating.

6. 6

   As soon as the syrup reaches the target temperature, immediately remove the saucepan from the heat.

   Σημείωση του μάγειρα: Working quickly is important as the syrup can continue to cook and will begin to harden.

7. 7

   Carefully stir in the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and baking soda. The mixture will bubble and foam up.

   Περίπου 1 λ.

   Σημείωση του μάγειρα: If you want to add food coloring, stir a few drops in at this stage.

8. 8

   Quickly and cautiously pour the hot syrup in a stream all over the popcorn in the bowl.

   Περίπου 1 λ.

9. 9

   Use a buttered spatula or large wooden spoon to gently fold and toss the popcorn until it is thoroughly and evenly coated with the syrup.

   Περίπου 2 λ.

10. 10

    Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes until it's safe to handle.

    Περίπου 5 λ.

    Σημείωση του μάγειρα: The syrup will still be very hot, so test a small piece before handling with your hands.

11. 11

    Lightly grease your hands with butter or cooking spray to prevent the popcorn from sticking to them.

    Περίπου 1 λ.

12. 12

    Scoop a portion of the coated popcorn and press it firmly together to form a ball, then place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper.

    Περίπου 5 λ.

    Σημείωση του μάγειρα: Work quickly to form all the balls before the mixture hardens in the bowl.

13. 13

    Let the popcorn balls cool completely at room temperature until they are firm and no longer sticky.

    Περίπου 30 λ.