Let's Make Matcha Popcorn

While the pandemic brought a fair share of negative things to our lives, one positive thing it created was the immense popularity of showing movies in our backyards. It was a wonderful way to get together during a time when social gatherings were a no-no.

Whether you invested in high-tech equipment or went old school and hung a sheet on the side of your house, there’s something special about watching a movie outside. Even as life has returned somewhat to normal and movie theaters are once again back in business, the popularity of this activity has remained. Having friends and family over for a night of movie watching outdoors, creating a backyard drive-in theater feeling, is just downright fun. Plus, the popcorn and candy are a LOT less expensive!

Speaking of popcorn…for your next backyard movie night, BBQ or picnic, consider taking popcorn to the next level by making Matcha Popcorn! It’s easy to do and makes a delightfully different snack. We love the sweet ‘n salty flavors in this recipe. Use our thin grade matcha, which is better for cooking, and make sure to get clarified butter or ghee. Its high smoke point allows you to cook on high heat without burning, and its lack of water content means your popcorn won’t get soggy.

Matcha Popcorn

Ingredients:

Stovetop Popcorn

• 1 ½ tbsp clarified butter (ghee)
• ¼ C popcorn kernels

Matcha Butter Topping

• ⅓ C clarified butter (ghee)
• 2 tsp Matcha Jobetsugi
• 2 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp salt

Instructions:

Matcha Butter

Combine ⅓ cup clarified butter, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Sift in matcha to avoid clumping and mix. Set aside.

Stovetop Popcorn

1. Put 1 ½ tablespoons clarified butter and three popcorn kernels into a pot and close the lid. Turn the heat to medium high and wait for a kernel to pop. Once you hear a kernel pop, add in the remaining kernels and close the lid.
2. Shake the pot every few seconds until popping slows to 4-5 seconds between pops. When that occurs, turn off the heat.
3. Pour the popcorn a cup at a time into the large bowl with the matcha topping and coat popped kernels evenly. Continue in batches until all the popcorn is coated.
4. The coating process can be messy! It can be easier to use clean hands to mix rather than a utensil.
5. Serve in fun, individual popcorn bowls or containers.

Popcorn makes you thirsty, of course. Wash those yummy matcha kernels down with the perfect summer drink, refreshing tea slushies! We’ve got several tasty tea slushie recipes for you to choose from on our blog – make them with alcohol or not, it’s up to you. 

Enjoy, and remember – no talking during the movie!