To make fresh, warm caramel corn, put 28 small caramel squares and 2 tablespoons of water in a medium bowl and microwave on high for 1˝ minutes. Stir then continue microwaving and stirring on high in 30 second intervals until sauce is smooth . Pour immediately over 2˝ quarts of plain popped popcorn, tossing until well coated. Spread onto greased cookie sheet to form a single layer and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Break apart and enjoy.
For those who believe they have a great recipe using popcorn, Festival organizers are asking you to enter it in the Marion Popcorn Festival’s fifth annual Popcorn Cooking Contest. Judging will take place on Thursday, September 4, at the Marion Popcorn Festival.
Mary Longo of the OSU Extension office who coordinates the event indicates it is a traditional cooking contest where the finished product must be edible and must contain popcorn. The recipes do not need to be original, but the original source must be listed. Longo also indicated that she has a number of popcorn recipes for those seeking some ideas or inspiration. Judging will be based on the use of popcorn, flavor creativity, and appropriateness to the food.
“We have been extremely pleased,” said Longo, “with the number and the quality of the entries we have received. And as long as the interest is there, we’ll continue to do it.”
Entries can be mailed or dropped off, but they must be received by Thursday, August 28th at the OSU Extension Office, located in the Marion County Building, 222 West Center Street. Be sure to include your name, address, and telephone number.
Finalists will be notified on Friday, August 29th. Finalists will then bring their prepared item to the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce between 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 6.
First place winners will receive two Kernel Seats to the night of the winner’s choice. Second place category winners will receive two VIP tickets for the night of their choice.
Longo can be reached at 740-223-4040, or through the Ohio State University Extension Office.
