Brown butter popcorn

Like so many great things in life, this recipe came about by accident. One lazy afternoon I had promised my children stove-popped popcorn for a snack. This is usually done with oil in a large pot but this day I was out of oil. I did have butter on hand, but was skeptical about using it since its smoking point is very low.

But there were the children to consider. The children! I had to try the butter, if only for their sake.

It did not disappoint.

The nutty flavor that comes through when browning butter and the little flecks of burnt milk solids gave the snack an overall interesting taste and appearance. I highly recommend this easy and simple recipe for the next time you want popcorn and are out of oil.

And even when you're not out.

Fudgey brownies | grain-free recipe

I spend a lot of time thinking about combining protein with my carbs in an effort to keep my blood sugar levels stable. I don't need to measure my levels, but I know that swinging ones can negatively affect your mood. So, if I'm eating fruit for a snack, for example, I make sure to have some protein with it. This usually means a large spoonful of peanut butter.

I like this recipe for my occasional sweet indulgence because it uses peanut butter and agave syrup instead of flour and sugar for it's main ingredients. Agave syrup has a lower glycemic index level than sugar and therefore helps keep blood sugar levels more stable. Peanut butter has protein. And fat. Which is good for you.

Which. Is. Good. For. You.

Protein and fat are also rumored to help keep blood sugar levels stable. I hope you enjoy these as much as I do. A girlfriend of mine says they are just as good when using honey, so try that option if you are avoiding agave syrup.  Enjoy!