Looking for a delicious, gluten-free, and nutrient-packed snack? Popped sorghum is your answer! This tiny grain pops like popcorn but is smaller, lighter, and packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make at home.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to make perfectly popped sorghum, along with flavor variations to keep things exciting. Let’s get popping!
Why You’ll Love Popped Sorghum
✅ Light & Crunchy – A satisfying snack without the heaviness of popcorn.
✅ Nutritious – High in fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
✅ Versatile – Enjoy it plain, sweet, or savory.
✅ Gluten-Free & Vegan – Perfect for dietary restrictions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup whole grain sorghum (make sure it’s the popping variety)
- 1 tbsp oil (coconut, avocado, or ghee work well)
- Salt or seasonings (to taste)
(Optional flavor boosters: nutritional yeast, cinnamon sugar, chili powder, or caramel drizzle!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Sorghum
- Rinse the sorghum grains under cold water and drain well.
- Let them dry completely (wet grains won’t pop properly).
(Tip: Spread them on a towel for 30 minutes to dry faster.)
2. Heat the Oil
- In a large pot with a lid (or a stovetop popcorn maker), heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-high heat.
- Add 3-4 test grains—when they pop, the oil is ready.
3. Pop the Sorghum
- Add ½ cup sorghum and cover with a lid.
- Shake the pot occasionally to prevent burning.
- After about 30-60 seconds, the popping will start!
- Once the popping slows (around 2-3 minutes), remove from heat.
(Warning: A few unpopped grains are normal—don’t overcook or they’ll burn!)
4. Season & Enjoy!
- Transfer to a bowl and toss with salt or your favorite seasonings.
- Let cool slightly before eating—it gets crispier as it cools.
Delicious Flavor Variations
🌿 Savory: Garlic powder + nutritional yeast + smoked paprika
🍯 Sweet: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup + cinnamon
🌶 Spicy: Chili powder + lime zest + sea salt
Tips for Perfect Popped Sorghum
🔹 Use a large pot – Crowding leads to uneven popping.
🔹 Keep the lid slightly vented – Lets steam escape for crispiness.
🔹 Store in an airtight container – Stays fresh for up to 3 days.
Final Thoughts
Popped sorghum is a fun, healthy alternative to popcorn that’s easy to customize. Whether you’re craving a salty snack or a sweet treat, this grain delivers!
Have you tried popped sorghum before? What’s your favorite way to season it? Let me know in the comments! 👇
(Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later!)
(Image: A spoon scooping up popped sorghum.)
