Sweet and Crunchy Caramel Popcorn

1. Wipe a stainless steel bowl or deep pan with plenty of oil and set it aside.

2. Prepare 2 large trays by lining them with parchment paper and sprinkling with oil; set aside.

3. Get 2 wide plastic spoons and wipe or sprinkle them with a little oil; set aside.

4. Pop the corn using a popcorn maker.

5. For the caramel, in a deep stainless steel pot, combine sugar, water, butter, and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon until the butter melts. Wipe the sides with a wet brush. Stop stirring and cook on medium heat for 15-20 minutes until the mixture is golden on the sides with some white in the center; do not stir.

6. Have a whisk ready. Carefully add the baking soda all at once to the caramel; it will foam and steam. Quickly whisk until the foaming subsides.

7. Immediately pour the caramel over the popcorn and stir quickly with the spoons to coat evenly. Be careful as the caramel is very hot.

8. Quickly spread the mixture on the trays, trying to separate the pieces. Do not worry if some are stuck together; they can be separated later.

9. Let it cool completely. If the pieces are large, break them into smaller pieces gently and serve.

Tips

1. Serve in a dish or bags and expect lots of praise and compliments.