Vegan Cheesy BBQ Popcorn Seasoning

Popcorn has long been my favorite snack, so I was surprised to see I only have one measly popcorn recipe on the blog (hi, Maple and Rosemary Kettle Corn, we love you). While that popcorn recipe is great for a sweet treat, this Vegan Cheesy BBQ Popcorn is perfect for a savory snack. 

This is the popcorn seasoning I always turn to. It's a simple mix of nooch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and salt, and it's super easy to make in bulk. This recipe makes one very large or several smaller servings, so feel free to cut in half or multiply as needed!

Let me know what you think of the recipe and don’t forget to follow the sustainability tips below!

Time: 10 minutes

Makes: 8 cups of popcorn

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 cup popcorn kernels

• Scant tablespoon neutral oil or vegan butter, melted

Methods

1. Combine nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.

2. Place 2 tablespoons of oil and 3 popcorn kernels in a large lidded pot over medium-high heat. Once you hear all 3 kernels pop, add the remaining kernels and shake the pot (lid on, mitts on) for about 10 seconds, or until the kernels are coated in oil.

3. Alternate shaking the pot for 3 seconds and letting the pot sit for 3 seconds until the popping slows to about 2 seconds between each pop. Remove from heat and immediately pour into a large bowl.

4. Drizzle the oil or melted butter over the popcorn and toss to coat. Then, sprinkle the seasoning over the popcorn, tossing again until evenly coated. Nosh!

Sustainability Tips

• Popcorn: In the U.S., local popcorn kernels are typically easy to find if you look for them. Buying locally means your kernels won't have to travel as far, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy use.