Everybody loves popcorn. There are many types to cater to all ages. In lieu of the Christmas season, this is an interesting snack for the home. You can even put them in nice bags to serve as giveaways.

The spiced sugar can also be used for porridge or you can sprinkle it on top of fruits.

For the spiced sugar:

3 fresh bay leaves

zest of 2 oranges, finely grated

zest of 2 lemons, finely grated

6 whole cloves

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon vanilla extract (if you can find vanilla pods or beans, it is better to use these)

1 kg unrefined brown sugar

For the popcorn:

3 cups olive oil

1 cup of butter

250g popcorn kernels

6 tablespoons spiced sugar

In a blender or food processor, mix the bay leaves, orange zest, lemon zest, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and brown sugar. Blend for one minute or until the zest and bay leaves are fine. If the sugar is moist, pour mixture in a baking tray and let it dry for a few hours. Once it is, let it pass through a sieve. Discard larger pieces or spices. Keep in an airtight container.

In a large pan, put olive oil and melt the butter. Mix in the corn kernels. Make sure that the kernels are coated in oil. Cover the pan for a few minutes. Once is starts popping, shake the pan every 30 seconds until all the kernels have popped. In a bowl, place sugar mixture. Toss and stir in the popcorn, so that it picks up the spices. Serve in a bowl or in small bags.

Picture Courtesy Of: ccharmon