A “Reel” Healthy Treat

The weekend is quickly approaching, and I find myself asking my clients on Thursday and Friday if they have any plans for the weekend. The vast majority of today’s clients, plan to see a movie over the weekend. As the conversation continued, I heard (way too many) comments about how they had plans to be good all day so they could have some movie popcorn when they go to their show.

Now, you all know that I am a believer in moderation. But when it comes to movie popcorn, not so much. Movie popcorn  has got to be one of the worst things on the face of the planet for you. I’ve tried telling people and it seems they feel it is solely my opinion. Which is true to a point, it is definitely my opinion…but I googled it…and found proof! I found a chart of the most commonly eaten foods at a movie theatre for ya to take a look at. See what ya think:

Are you sick yet? I was when I looked over it. And to think all of that is consumed while sitting down, doing absolutely nothing. Overall, not the most brilliant plan.

Now, on the other hand, I know that some folks like to have something to munch on while watching a flick. So, I’ve got a recipe for you to try! Try it out on your next movie night, whether at home or at the theatre, see what ya think about it! It is definitely much better for you, you still get to munch, and it’s got a lot more kick than that butter drenched nasty you  can get by the tub full.

Spiced Popcorn

• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• A dash of chipotle chili powder, or to taste
• A dash of cayenne pepper, or to taste
• A dash of ground pepper, or to taste
• 12 cups of air popped popcorn
• Nonstick cooking spray

In a small bowl, mix together the first  six ingredients. Spread the popcorn out in an even layer on a cookie sheet. Lightly spray the popcorn with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle the spice mixture even over the popcorn and then toss to coat evenly.

It is so easy, so quick and tastes so much better than the fat laden, calorie packed movie theatre version. My kids LOVE this popcorn, and request it often. In experimenting, I’ve found it is also good with a different spice  combination as well. The recipe is  below:

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• A dash of ground cloves
• zest of one orange or lemon, although my kids and I  liked  the orange zest better

When using this spice combination, I don’t add the orange zest to the spices when mixing, I put it in very last as I’m tossing the popcorn. See what you think, I’d love to hear your thoughts!