Popcorn is produced from the dried seeds of a specific type of corn. These seeds look similar to those found on corn on the cob, but only a certain variety can pop when subjected to heat.
Popcorn seeds consist of three main components: the endosperm, germ, and the outer bran or hull. The typical hull color is either white or yellow, but popping corn seeds can also be red, black, or come in various other shades. When heated, a small amount of water inside each seed vaporizes into steam.
This steam generates significant pressure, causing the seed to burst open. The hull splits as the endosperm, which is mainly starch, expands into the fluffy starch we recognize as popcorn.
What’s the ideal oil for making popcorn?
You should select an oil that has a high smoke point. This is important since the oil needs to be heated significantly before adding the seeds. You want to avoid burning the oil before introducing the kernels into the pan.
For high-heat cooking, opt for oils like canola, coconut, peanut, grapeseed, vegetable, sunflower, or safflower. Reserve low-heat oils such as olive, walnut, or avocado for adding flavor after popping, as they can burn easily.
Delicious popcorn seasoning ideas to try:
1. To make vegan “cheesy bacon” popcorn, melt ¼ cup of salted vegan butter and mix it with 1 cup of finely chopped crispy shiitake mushrooms and â…“ cup of nutritional yeast.
2. For PB&J popcorn, combine 1 to 2 tablespoons of melted refined coconut oil with 1 cup of crushed freeze-dried strawberries and 2 tablespoons of peanut butter powder. Add salt to your liking.
3. Try making brown butter-coconut popcorn by mixing ¼ cup of brown butter with ½ cup of finely crushed coconut chips, 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of flaky sea salt.
4. For chocolate-chile popcorn, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with ½ cup of dark chocolate chips. Stir in 2 teaspoons of ground chipotle chile (or more if you prefer) and 1 teaspoon of flaky sea salt.
5. To prepare herbed popcorn, drizzle 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over the freshly popped popcorn and mix in 2 tablespoons of herbes de Provence, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Nutritional Information
Popcorn is considered a whole grain, which makes it an excellent snack option. It is rich in fiber, an important nutrient that can aid in weight management and promote digestive health.
Additionally, popcorn contains polyphenols, substances associated with improved heart health and a reduced risk of cancer.
