via Style Caster

The thought of applying honey and sugar to your face may probably result in you picturing a sticky mess. Since they are both water soluble, you don't have to worry one bit, as they both rinse away leaving a brighter, smoother, and moisturized complexion. Ever since I discovered how amazing using these ingredients for my skin are, I've been hooked and use them daily. My face has never been so moisturized and smooth. Read more about it below in one of my latest Mode stories. 

Check out Why I Only Wash My Face With Raw Honey and Sugar

by Stina Abion at Mode

What are your thoughts about this skincare alternative? Would you try it? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Caramel corn is so addicting, but adding matcha and honey as well... It doesn't get any better than this. All caramel corn really is, is butter and sugar, so when you think about all of those yummy ingredients together, you're talking about the party of all parties in your mouth. Thanks to my husband for suggesting I put matcha into my caramel - I couldn't put down the container without finishing every last piece. Here's to changing caramel corn forever! Read on for the recipe. 

Honey Caramel Matcha Popcorn

Author: Stina Abion | Hello Lovely Living

Published November 9, 2015

Servings: 8 - 2 cup servings

Prep: 0 mins

Cook: 25 mins

Total time: 20 mins

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup popcorn kernels
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 cup raw organic honey
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp baking soda

Instructions

1. For popcorn: Pop kernals in two batches. In a large 4-quart heavy-bottomed pot with lid on, heat 1 Tbsp of oil on medium heat and add 1/3 cup of kernals. Gently shake pot to distribute heat and oil on kernals and leave lid slightly adjar to allow steam to escape. Once it begins to pop, watch carefully and shake pot occasionally. Remove from heat as soon as you notice popping stops at 2 to 3 seconds apart. Repeat steps for second batch. Pour popcorn onto a 17.25" x 11.5" baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. For caramel: On medium high heat, melt butter, brown sugar, honey, matcha powder, and salt in a large saucepan and heat until boiling.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and allow to boil for 3 minutes without stirring. It will start to bubble, so watch it carefully.
4. Remove from heat and add baking soda. Stir to combine. The mixture will get even more bubbly.
5. Pour caramel over popcorn and gently mix to coat. Place in a 250° heated oven at 5 minute intervals and mix to evenly coat each time. When all kernels appear evenly coated, you may remove from the oven. Allow to cool before storing.

Notes

• For more matcha flavor, just add more matcha powder.
• Store in an air-tight container.

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Homemade popcorn is just way more fun and even way more delicious. This is perfect for the holidays because of that rich, green color that the matcha powder creates. Just package in pretty little gift bags or containers and you have a simple DIY gift that anyone will love. I hope you try this out! 

Look out for more matcha recipes coming soon.

What is your favorite popcorn flavor? Share with me in the comments!

Kale's one of those leafy vegetables that, at first, seem a little intimidating. Its tough appearance and deep green color give you the idea that it may taste bitter and need a ton of cooking to soften it; however, that isn't the case. Kale has a mild taste and can be eaten raw, which is actually the best way to eat it!

I love using kale in soups and stews or even baking them to make kale chips for a healthy snack. They are very high in Vitamins A, K, and C and numerous other beneficial nutrients that are amazing for your immune system and provide antioxidant and anti-aging properties. Learn more about kale HERE. 

Here's a simple recipe that you can whip up in no time and get your healthy on. It's a great salad to make in advance because it tastes even better when it sits and the kale soaks up all of that yummy dressing. It's slightly sweet and tart and has great texture. I hope you can try it out!

Kale & Honey Apple Pecan Slaw/Salad

Author: Hello Lovely Living

Published April 1, 2015

Servings: 3-4

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 0 mins

Total time: 15 mins

Ingredients

• 3 branches of kale
• 1 granny smith apple, cut into 1/2 cubes
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 cup light mayonaise
• 3 tsp raw honey
• 1/4 cup pecans
• a pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Tear kale leaves into small pieces and discard rib part. Place in a medium sized bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine cubed apples and lemon juice and let sit for a few minutes.
3. Combine mayonaise and honey in a separate bowl. Add to kale and toss well to coat. Add apples and pecans. Mix well.
4. Add a pinch of salt to taste and combine.
5. Enjoy!

Notes

• Add dried cranberries or any other types of nuts and seeds that you like.

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Wasn't that so simple! I love recipes like this because they don't require any cooking time and there's less mess in the kitchen. 

This kale slaw would be a great side to go with a sandwich or wrap - or if you want to make it a meal on it's own, it's pretty filling for that too!

Hope you enjoyed this recipe! What other recipes would you like for me to share?

xo stina