Popcorn with Wasabi Asian Flavors

Photo by: Steven Kapsinow

Another in my popcorn series, this recipe is sweet and spicy. Wasabi is an Asian ”horseradish” in strength of hot flavors. Otherwise, wasabi’s taste is different. If you are unfamiliar using wasabi, it’s best to add small amounts at a time. If not careful, be ready for an eye watering, nose burning experience. In the right amount, wasabi is addictive. Soon you will be adding more and more.

Wasabi is one of those flavors that many of us can take or leave the first time. A week later, we remember wasabi. Then we think, “I’d like to try that one more time”. It’s the beginning of the end. Find a reputable dealer. You are addicted. This is comfort food at a higher frequency.

If you can’t find wasabi powder, use cayenne or horseradish powder but wasabi is best. Now I’m going to correct myself. Wasabi is difficult to grow and somewhat rare. What most of us know as wasabi is a powdered combination of horseradish, mustard and a smaller amount of wasabi. The blending of flavors adds that Asian taste that is distinctive.

Popcorn with Wasabi Asian Flavors

Serves 3 (2 cup servings)

1/3 cup popcorn
1 tbsp canola oil
1/4 tsp wasabi powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp Sucralose/Brown Sugar Blend (Splenda or Just Like Sugar Brands)
*pinch of salt, ground ginger or garlic powder is optional. Start with the basic recipe. Find your preference of wasabi or hot seasoning before getting more complicated.

Blend the onion powder and low-calorie brown sugar blend, then add wasabi slowly. Taste after each addition, until a tiny amount on the tip of a finger tastes too hot. (Remember its spread over all the corn)

Pop the corn in a covered 2 quart pan or popcorn popper. If using a covered pan, make sure to keep it moving on the burner until the corn stops popping. This will prevent scorching and keep un-popped kernels at the bottom.

Pour the popcorn in a bowl and sprinkle the wasabi mixture to taste.

Nutrition Information

Calories 87  Calories from Fat 42
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 4.7 g 7%
Trans Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 0 mg 0%
Total Carbohydrates 9.1 g 3%
Sugars 8.2 g
Protein 0.2 g

Try these other healthier popcorn snacks:

Taco Popcorn, Southwestern Flavored Snack

Cinnamon Toast Popcorn