The Clever Popcorn Recipe Fans Call ‘Truly Genius’
- Content creator Cortney LaCorte shares a Pad Thai-inspired popcorn recipe perfect for pairing with The White Lotus finale.
This weekend's plan is simple: The White Lotus finale, a cozy couch and a big bowl of Pad Thai -inspired popcorn , thanks to content creator Cortney LaCorte ( @cheesegal ). LaCorte is known for her creative charcuterie boards , but she also loves to create semi-elaborate couch snacks, which is something I support 100%.
She recently brought back her snack and show pairing series, and I'm ready to jump in! This popcorn recipe hits all the right notes—crunchy, tangy, savory, a little spicy—and promises to be a flavorful snack I'll be making long after the credits roll. And I'm not the only one who is into this popcorn idea. "I'm sorry but this is truly genius," said one commenter. I couldn't agree more!
If you're also gearing up for Sunday night, this flavor-packed recipe is the perfect match for the drama and decadence of The White Lotus .
Related: The 'World's Best' Way to Make Buttered Popcorn, According to Andrew Zimmern (and His Son)
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How to Make Pad Thai-Inspired Popcorn
If you've been hearing about The White Lotus nonstop but haven't jumped in yet, what are you waiting for?
This critically acclaimed series on HBO centers around a group of wealthy travelers vacationing at an exclusive (fictional) White Lotus resort, which happens to be in Thailand in season 3. While they're surrounded by luxury, there's lots of drama, with shocking secrets being revealed each episode. There's always a murder mystery at the center and lots of dark humor to indulge in, but it's not the only thing you'll want to take a bite out of!
You'll need something to crunch on while you're nervously watching secrets explode—and this Pad Thai-esque popcorn recipe totally delivers. You can get the full details in LaCorte's Instagram caption, but here's the gist.
In a small bowl, mix melted coconut oil or butter with brown coconut sugar, fresh lime zest and juice, and your choice of soy sauce or fish sauce. Whisk it well until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
Slowly drizzle the mixture over the popcorn in batches, gently tossing as you go to keep things evenly coated. Then, mix together a dry seasoning blend of Thai chili powder, ground ginger, garlic powder and a bit of salt. Again, sprinkle this on in stages, tossing well to coat the kernels.
To finish, garnish with chopped peanuts, a sprinkle of cilantro and an extra touch of lime zest for brightness. The final step is the spicy-sweet chili crisp. Add as much or as little as you like.
Related: We Just Discovered the Coolest Way to Eat Popcorn
How to Make This Recipe Your Own
One of the best things about this popcorn is how easy it is to customize. Can't do peanuts? Swap in toasted sesame seeds or crispy chickpeas. Want extra crunch? Throw in some crushed rice crackers or puffed quinoa. Don't love cilantro? Use Thai basil or mint instead. For a slightly sweeter version, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can balance out the heat beautifully. And if you want it even more Pad Thai-y, toss in a handful of chopped scallions or a few crushed shrimp chips.
No matter how you spin it, this Pad Thai-inspired popcorn is a snack worth savoring—especially when paired with a juicy season finale.
