A traditional Honduran dish — alborotos are Honduras’s answer to caramel corn: fluffy popcorn tossed through a buttery golden caramel and studded with roasted peanuts until every kernel crackles with sweetness. Sold in little bags at school gates and movie nights, they are a beloved Central American treat.
Alborotos
A traditional Honduran dish — alborotos are Honduras’s answer to caramel corn: fluffy popcorn tossed through a buttery golden caramel and studded with roasted peanuts until every kernel crackles with sweetness.

Step by stepInstructions
- Pop the popcorn in a large pot with a little oil, shaking constantly, and transfer to a very large bowl, discarding unpopped kernels
- In a heavy saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and salt, and cook over medium heat without stirring until the syrup turns deep amber, about eight minutes
- Remove from the heat and immediately stir in the butter, vanilla, and baking soda; the mixture will foam
- Pour the caramel over the popcorn, add the peanuts, and toss quickly with two spoons to coat evenly
- Spread the coated popcorn on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer and let it cool completely
- Break into clusters and serve, storing any leftovers in an airtight container
💡 Chef tips & storage
Work fast once the caramel is ready — it hardens quickly. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne makes a fun variation, and panela can replace the sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.

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