Healthy snack, eat popcorn
Popcorn is a fun and healthy snack. First invented by Native Americans thousands of years ago, it has become a snack institution that is easy to make and fun to eat. Popcorn is a type of corn kernel that explodes when heated. It can explode because the grain contains a small amount of moisture that is sealed inside while the outside of the grain is dry and hard. As the grain is heated, the moisture inside expands and causes the grain to expand and pop.
Popcorn is a healthy snack because it is high in fiber, low in calories and fat, and contains virtually no sugar or salt. It’s a healthy alternative to fries and a dip while watching the game or during movie night.
There are many methods that are used to make popcorn. One of the first methods used was to simply put the beans in a wire mesh container held over an open fire. This caused uneven cooking and sometimes burned the grains. Today, it can be prepared in large popping machines, such as those found in movie theaters, on the stove in a saucepan, in a popping machine, or in the microwave.
Doing it on the stove is simple. Makes 3 tablespoons popcorn oil in 1 to 3 quart saucepan. It is important to use this type of oil because of its high smoke point. Heat the oil over medium-high heat. Put a couple of grains in the saucepan and cover. When the beans pop, it’s time to add most of the beans. Now in about 1/3 cup of grains. Cover the saucepan and allow the beans to pop, shaking the container gently at times. When the beans are popped, pour them into a bowl, salt to taste, and enjoy. The butter can be drizzled on top simply by melting a couple of tablespoons of the butter in the already hot saucepan.
An easy, no-mess alternative is to use a microwave to heat a bag of popcorn. Popcorn bags are specially designed to absorb microwaves and concentrate them on the kernels, helping them pop evenly. Wait three to four minutes for a tasty snack.
Regardless of the preparation method, this snack can be flavored with specially designed seasonings. There is an almost limitless variety of seasoning flavors. White cheddar, ranch, barbecue, nacho, caramel, and boiled corn flavorings are just a few of the many.
From the first Native Americans, to the first movie theaters, to the living room; Popcorn is an iconic, healthy, and fun snack.