🧈 Carnivore Popcorn (Cheese Puff Version)
🧾 Ingredients:
1 cup cubed hard cheese (like cheddar, gouda, or colby jack) — about ½-inch cubes
Optional: pinch of salt or garlic powder (if strict carnivore, skip)
🥣 Instructions:
Cube the cheese
Cut your cheese into small, uniform cubes. About ½-inch is ideal.
Dehydrate / Dry the cheese (optional but highly recommended for maximum puffing)
Place the cubes on a plate and leave them uncovered in the fridge for 24–48 hours.
Or bake at 170°F (75°C) for 1–2 hours until they feel dry but not browned.
Pop the cheese
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) OR use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C).
Place dried cheese cubes on parchment paper or in air fryer basket.
Bake/air fry for 5–8 minutes — they will puff up and get crispy. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Cool and enjoy
Let them cool for a couple of minutes to get fully crisp.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
✅ Notes:
Zero carbs if you use carb-free cheese (like sharp cheddar).
For a spicy twist, sprinkle with cayenne or crushed bacon dust.
Can also be made with pork belly pieces or pork rinds reheated for crisping — but the cheese version mimics popcorn texture more closely.
