Adobo Popcorn Recipe
Filipino food inflection in the late-night menu.
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Ingredients
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Popcorn
Adobo seasoning
Finish & optional garnishes
Method
Popcorn
- 1
Heat oil and test kernel
Place a large, heavy-bottomed pot or lidded skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tbs neutral oil and 2–3 popcorn kernels. Cover and heat until those kernels pop (about 1–2 minutes). This tests the oil temperature.
- 2
Pop the kernels
Once test kernels pop, add the remaining 1 cup popcorn kernels in an even layer. Cover the pot. Remove from heat for 10 seconds to let kernels equalize, then return to medium-high heat. Shake the pot gently and frequently to keep kernels from burning and to promote even popping. Keep the lid slightly ajar to let steam escape for crisper popcorn.
- 3
When popping slows to 2–3 seconds between pops, remove the pot from heat and immediately transfer the popcorn to a large bowl. Sprinkle fine sea salt (1 tsp) and toss gently to lightly season the popcorn while still hot.
Adobo seasoning
- 4
Make the seasoning sauce
In a small saucepan or skillet over low heat, melt 1 tbs unsalted butter. Add 1 tbs soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp ground black pepper, 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds, and 1/4 tsp crushed dried bay leaf. Stir to combine and warm for 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp apple cider vinegar.
- 5
Taste the sauce and adjust: if too salty, add a little more sugar (1/4 tsp) or a drop more vinegar to brighten; if too thin, keep warm briefly to reduce slightly.
Assembly & finish
- 6
Coat the popcorn
Working quickly, drizzle the warm adobo seasoning over the hot popcorn in the large bowl, tossing gently and evenly with a spatula or by shaking the bowl. Aim for an even, light coating rather than soaking the popcorn. If some popcorn remains uncoated, you can microwave the sauce for 10–15 seconds and drizzle again sparingly.
- 7
Add garnishes
Immediately sprinkle the popped popcorn with the 2 tsp chopped fried garlic and 1 tsp extra toasted sesame seeds. Toss gently. Taste and add chopped scallion for freshness. If you like a bright citrus hit, serve with calamansi or lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over small portions right before eating.
- 8
Serve warm for best texture and flavor. Leftover popcorn will soften; reheating in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 4–6 minutes can help crisp it back up.