Holiday Snack Mix Sesame Popcorn (Printer View)

Savory-sweet mix combining sesame popcorn and miso-glazed almonds for festive gatherings or gifting.

# Components:

→ Popcorn

01 - 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
02 - 2 tablespoons neutral oil, such as grapeseed or canola
03 - 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
04 - 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds
05 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Miso Almonds

06 - 1 1/2 cups raw whole almonds
07 - 2 tablespoons white miso paste
08 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
09 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
10 - 1/2 tablespoon neutral oil
11 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Optional Add-ins

12 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
13 - 1/2 cup wasabi peas
14 - 1/4 cup chopped nori sheets

# Method steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, whisk white miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, neutral oil, and ground black pepper until combined.
03 - Add raw whole almonds to the miso mixture and toss until evenly coated.
04 - Spread almonds on prepared sheet in a single layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden and aromatic. Allow almonds to cool completely; they will firm up as they cool.
05 - While almonds bake, heat neutral oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add popcorn kernels, cover, and shake pan occasionally. When popping slows to 3–4 seconds between pops, remove from heat.
06 - Drizzle hot popcorn with toasted sesame oil, then sprinkle with white sesame seeds and fine sea salt. Toss to coat evenly.
07 - In a large bowl, gently mix cooled miso almonds, seasoned sesame popcorn, and any desired optional add-ins until evenly distributed.
08 - Serve immediately, or transfer to an airtight container; keeps fresh up to 5 days at room temperature.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Combination of crunchy, savory, and sweet flavors
  • Quick to prepare and ideal for holiday entertaining or gifting
02 -
  • Contains tree nuts, soy, and sesame
  • Use tamari to make glutenfree and check miso labels for gluten
03 -
  • For extra crunch, use smoked or roasted almonds
  • Swap maple syrup for honey or add dried fruit for festive flavor
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