Pop Thai: How to Make Pad Thai Popcorn

We love buttery movie theater popcorn as much as the next person, but sometimes you’ve got to shake things up and experiment with different flavors!

This time, we’re taking your tastebuds on a journey to Thailand with our simple Pad Thai popcorn recipe. Think tangy tamarind, toasted peanuts, a hint of lime, and the right touch of chili heat. It's the kind of snack that will have you saying “just one more handful.”

Now grab your Popper and buckle up — you’ll be making this all the time! 

Pad Thai Popcorn Ingredients

• ½ cup kernels
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 3 tablespoons finely ground peanuts
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon tamarind powder (or 2 teaspoons lime juice powder)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon dried lime zest (optional)

Pad Thai Popcorn Directions

Step 1: Make Pad Thai Popcorn Seasoning

Mix finely ground peanuts, sugar, tamarind powder or lime juice powder, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and dried lime zest in a small bowl. Set aside for later.

Step 2: Heat

Set your stove to medium heat and let your Popper preheat for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3: Pour Oil

Pour oil into the Popper.

Step 4: Add Kernels

Toss in 2 to 3 kernels. When the first one pops, pour the rest and cover the Popper.

Step 5: Turn

Turn the Popper’s crank clockwise while the kernels pop to prevent them from staying in one place and burning. No need to do so the whole time — a few cranks every couple of seconds is fine.

Step 6: Remove

Take your Popper off the heat when popping slows, then remove the lid.

Step 7: Season

Gradually sprinkle the Pad Thai seasoning over your popcorn. Then cover the pot and shake it or give it some more cranks.

Step 8: Serve

Pour your Pad Thai popcorn into a huge bowl and enjoy! 

More Pad Thai Popcorn Tips

• Want your Pad Thai popcorn even more spicy? Add a dash of sriracha. It also gives the popcorn a bit of sweetness.

• We doubt you’ll have any leftovers, but in case you do, store your Pad Thai Popcorn in an airtight container and consume it within 5 days. 

• Consider sprinkling coriander leaves over your popcorn for garnish.

Bring the Vibrant Flavors of Thailand to Your Snack Bowl

Whether you’re having your weekly movie marathon, craving something different, or just want to impress your friends, this Thai-inspired treat hits all the right notes. Try it out and let us know what you think!

Want more popcorn recipes? Check out our blog! You’ll find plenty of inspiration for game night and movie night — from hurricane popcorn to dill pickle popcorn and more.