Camp popcorn

Popcorn: the perfect snack at the end of a day on the trail!  It travels well, is whole grain, fun to eat, and satisfies the salt craving.  After a day of perspiring it's important to replenish your salt stores.  At least that's what we tell ourselves...

Simple to make, all you need is a pot, a fire or camp stove, vegetable oil, and popcorn.  Wear a pair of fire gloves so you don't scar yourself in the process.  It's also good to use an old camp pot as the fire will scorch it black on the outside (you don't need to worry about this if you're using a camp stove).

 Pour a few tablespoons of oil into your pot (it should be just enough to cover the bottom).  Sprinkle your popcorn in - again, just enough to cover the bottom with kernels.  Cover with the lid.

Now's the fun part.  Put your pot over the fire for a minute for it to heat up, then give it a shake.  Keep the kernels moving every 15 seconds or so.  When you hear the first pop, pick up the pot and shake it in circular motions over the fire.  

(Note: I was being a bit of a pyro as you can see in the above photo... no need for flames quite that high.) 

Listen to the pops.  They should be fast but not furious.  As soon as it starts tapering off, take the pot off and let it sit a minute.  If you open the lid too soon you can get a high-speed kernel in the eye - not pleasant.

You can add your favourite spices (tip: use a Choghlan's Spice Shaker for this).  Personally I find salt is enough as there's a nice smoky flavour to the popcorn when made this way.

Enjoy!