Popcorn with a Twist

Pop it in the microwave, pop it in a pan, or pop it in your popcorn maker - however you pop it, popcorn is a great camping snack for the whole family. Get creative with your corn with these easy recipe twists.

CHEESY POPCORN BALLS

Makes 12

• 3 rashers short loin bacon, finely chopped
• 250g cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 tsp wholegrain mustard
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups prepared popcorn, lightly crushed

Place the bacon in a pan and cook over gentle heat 'til crisp and golden. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towel.

In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mustard, parsley and cooked bacon.

Season to taste.

Mix through 1 cup of the popcorn, reserving the rest of the popcorn for rolling.

Form the cheese mixture into balls about the size of a walnut and roll in the reserved popcorn. Place on a tray and refrigerate 'til ready to serve.

Garnish the balls with a parsley leaf and pop on a toothpick for serving.

TOASTED POPCORN GRANOLA

Serves 8

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup shaved coconut
• ½ cup sunflower seeds
• ½ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 cups prepared popcorn

Preheat the oven to 160°C.

Mix the oats, coconut, seeds and spice together.

Spread the mix out on the tray lined with baking paper. Drizzle with the maple syrup, bake for 5 to 10 minutes.

Add the popcorn to the tray and mix through the toasted nuts, return to the oven for a few minutes just to toast the popcorn.

You may like to add a little extra maple syrup at this point, depending on your taste.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container.

Serve with fresh berries and a generous dollop of your favourite yoghurt.

FLAVOURED POPCORN

Let your imagination run wild and create some flavoured popcorn to munch on around the campfire.

Use your favourite spice combinations or add a touch of sweetness. You can use prepared popcorn or try popping your own - the kids will love to listen to the crackling pan. 

Curry and Cumin – Drizzle a little olive oil in a pan, add 2 cups of popcorn and sprinkle with 1 tsp of each spice. Toss to coat and warm through slightly.

Chilli and Sea Salt – Begin with a little olive oil in a pan, add 2 cups of popcorn and sprinkle with 1 tsp of chilli flakes and sea salt flakes. Toss to coat and warm through slightly.

Honey and Salt – Place a dollop of butter into a pan to melt, add 2 cups of popcorn and drizzle with 2 tbsp honey. Toss to coat and warm through slightly. Season with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes.