The secrets behind Chicago's most famous popcorn

I was lucky enough to celebrate National Popcorn Day this year (January 19) with a tour of the kitchen at a Garrett Popcorn Shop. Founder Gladys Otto Garrett started selling her caramel popcorn in Chicago in 1949, and her first shop was located on the corner of Madison and State Streets.

Garrett's popcorn dynasty started in her kitchen with a family popcorn competition. Her delicious caramel popcorn was the winning recipe. Today people from around the world stand outside Garrett Popcorn Shops to enjoy this famous popcorn, which is still all made in small batches in a kitchen.

I was able to get a private tour of one of these kitchens, but I have been sworn to secrecy on some key elements used in the process. It’s one of the most exciting assignments I’ve had in my life. I love that every batch of CaramelCrisp and CheeseCorn is made fresh in house. I was a fan before, but now I’m a huge fan. They could mass-produce the popcorn but that would get away from their small batch family recipe. 

The process is unique. Popcorn is popped in a giant hot air popper. Fresh popcorn is added to a copper kettle where melted caramel and butter are added. Once mixed, the CaramelCrisp is removed and placed on an air cooling table to keep it from becoming one giant popcorn ball. After a few minutes, the CaramelCrisp is placed at the front counter for customers to order. 

The CheeseCorn is made in a large tumbler. The hot cheddar sauce is gradually drizzled in, and before you know it, we have orange popcorn. There’s nothing better than tasting cheesy popcorn. My fingers might still be orange, as I type this article. 

The real test was when they put me behind the counter to make the famous Garrett Mix. It’s not as easy as it looks. CheeseCorn goes in first followed by the heavier CaramelCrisp. Next, I must hold both corners and give the bag a sideways shake. This mixes both of the flavors evenly. This is followed with a double fold and a final Z fold. The real test is holding the bag upside down and making sure the popcorn doesn’t fall out. Let’s just say I’ll stick with writing. 

Since 2005, Garrett Popcorn Shops has been under the stewardship of Megan Chody and her own family. Garrett now has 14 Shops throughout Chicagoland, and last year they launched in grocery stores. 

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