Spicy Pumpkin Seed Popcorn

Did you know that pumpkin seeds go pop? Just like popcorn, only it’s a little less spectacular. But what popped pumpkin seeds lack in volume, they make up in flavour. Already more flavoursome than standard popcorn, Pumpkin Seed “Popcorn” becomes an exceptional snack with a simple addition of cumin, chilli and salt.

Whereas cumin and chilli is always much the same, the quality of salt varies immensely. This may be frugalfeeding, but it’s worth spending money on your salt. My salt of choice is Maldon; it’s widely available and has a genuinely pleasant flavour. Really want to treat yourself? Give Halen Môn a go. You’ll want to eat it alone. By the spoonful.

The mix of cumin and chilli is just a serving suggestion, of course. There’s no limit to the ways in which you can flavour your pumpkin seed popcorn. Salt alone would be a good option. And I’d stake my – currently non-existent – house on sweetened pumpkin seeds being mightily yum.

Spicy Pumpkin Seed “Popcorn”

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp chilli flakes
• 100g pumpkin seeds
• a generous pinch of salt

Method:

1. Heat the oil over a medium heat and gently toast the cumin seeds and chilli flakes.
2. Add the pumpkin seeds and toast until they begin to pop. Put a lid on the pan and heat until the popping begins to slow.
3. Season the pumpkin seed “popcorn” with a pinch of sea salt flakes. Enjoy.

Cost: Unless you’re buying your pumpkin seeds irresponsibly, they aren’t going to cost very much. In fact, it’s almost not worth stating what this snack will cost you. But I’ve started so… 80p should do it.