Celebrate National Popcorn Day...with a lavender twist!

Today is National Popcorn Day. We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than with some Lavender Chocolate Covered Popcorn. Lavender is an earthly elixir that enhances the flavor of chocolate. (And who can resisit chocolate??) Here's a recipe from The Lavender Gourmet, by Jennifer Vasich, that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy!

Lavender Chocolate Covered Popcorn

10 cups air-popped popcorn (without salt or butter) ¼ cup honey
2 Tbsp butter
¾ cup milk chocolate chips
¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 tsp coarse ground kosher salt (or sea salt)
1 tsp organic culinary lavender buds
1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Pop the popcorn according to the package directions. Place the popped corn on a large cookie sheet lined with parchment (or waxed) paper.

In a small saucepan, heat together the honey, butter and milk chocolate chips over a low heat, stirring until the chocolate is completely melted. Remove from the heat and allow the honey and chocolate mixture to cool slightly. Pour the mixture over the popcorn, stirring to coat evenly. Chill until the chocolate sets.

Once the chocolate has hardened on the popcorn, melt the semisweet chocolate chips over a low heat, stirring constantly. Drizzle the semisweet chocolate over the popcorn. Sprinkle with the kosher salt and lavender buds and chopped nuts (optional). Chill until the chocolate hardens and then break into pieces. Enjoy!

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Makes 10 cups.

The Lavender Gourmet, by Jennifer Vasich, is available on amazon.com! GET THIS BOOK