Okay friends, it’s back. My couch snack + show pairing series has returned, and we’re starting off strong—like, bold flavor, addictive crunch, zero leftovers kind of strong. I’ve been testing this one behind the scenes and let me just say: if Pad Thai and a popcorn bowl had a baby, it would be this. And I’m not waiting for Sunday’s finale to tell you—this one’s a keeper.

Whether you’re binge-watching your comfort show or tuning in for the White Lotus season 3 finale, this Pad Thai-inspired popcorn is the ultimate savory-sweet snack you didn’t know you needed.

What to Pair It With:

You didn’t think I’d leave you without a drink, did you? This snack was made to be enjoyed with the Thai Basil Gimlet (get the recipe here).

Ingredients

8 cups popped popcorn, I cheat here and make microwave popcorn but do your thing!
1.5 tbsp coconut oil, melted
1 tbsp brown coconut sugar
1 tsp lime zest, plus more for garnishing
1 tbsp lime juice
1/2 tsp soy sauce or fish sauce
1 tsp Thai chili powder
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Pinch of kosher salt
1/4 cup peanuts, roughly chopped
1 tbsp chopped cilantro
Spicy sweet chili crisp

Method

In a bowl, mix melted coconut oil (or butter) with coconut sugar, lime zest, lime juice, and soy sauce (or fish sauce.)
Whisk well until the coconut sugar has dissolved
Working in batches, pour a little at a time and mix the popcorn well. Taste as you go to ensure you don’t pour too much
In a small bowl, mix Thai chili powder, ground ginger, garlic powder and salt
Again, work in batches to coat, mix with the popcorn, and repeat
Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and a little extra lime zest
Top with as much chili crisp as you want and pair with the Thai Basil Gimlet

Enjoy!

Cortney

Cortney LaCorte

Cortney LaCorte is the creator of CheeseGal, a food and entertaining blog born in her Nashville kitchen that celebrates cheese, charcuterie and joyful gatherings