Homemade popcorn

For a wedding present we got a stove top popcorn machine. It has a handle to keep moving the popcorn so none of it burns. I don't use it very often but every time I do I always think that I should be using it more. If you do not have one of these you can still follow this recipe by using a pan with a good fitting list.

 You will need:

• Popcorn kernels
• An oil of your choice, I use coconut oil
• Salt 

Start by melting your oil in your pan. Once it's melted add a couple of kernels and close the lid. 

Once you hear that these have popped add the rest of your popcorn kernels. Add the lid again and either turn your handle or shake your pot to keep the kernels moving. Keep going until you only hear a couple of pops left.

Once the popping stops you will be left with a lovely bowl of popcorn. Add salt to taste and enjoy.

I'm hoping to find a sweet recipe that uses honey or maple syrup. I will share it if I find a good one. Claire

Healthy 'truffles'

I recently made these 'truffles' which were a hit. Anybody who knows me knows what a sweet tooth I have so I made these for my mid afternoon sugar cravings.

You will need,

• 1 cup of nuts- I used pecans 
• 1 cup of dates
• 2tbsp nut butter- I used almond but have also used peanut before
• 2tbsp cocoa powder- I use green and blacks 
• 2tbsp honey 
• Shredded coconut to taste 

Blend the nuts, dates, nut butter, honey and cocoa powder together in a blender until it forms a slightly crumbly dough. You can then either stir in the coconut and then make the dough into balls or push into moulds. Alternatively you can make into balls and then roll into coconut to give a decorative outing. 

I tend to store these in the fridge as they stay together better. The mixture also freezes well.