Microwave popcorn can be overpriced and contain questionable ingredients, so it is only natural that some people avoid it like the plague. But does this mean such people can’t enjoy it? Far from it.
There are actually easier and more affordable ways to pop and customize popcorn at home, and they don’t require you to master the stovetop technique. Here’s the best method for easily making microwave popcorn at home.
What You Need To Make Great Microwave Popcorn at Home
You will need the following ingredients:
- Paper lunch bag
- Popcorn kernels
- Vegetable oil (optional)
- Salt
- Butter
- Popcorn seasoning of choice (optional)
Follow These Steps
Firstly, pour 1/4 to 1/3 of a cup of kernels into a brown paper lunch bag. Premium-quality kernels are usually cheaper in pre-portioned bags. If there are no paper lunch bags, you can substitute them for a large bowl and use the microwave-safe plate as a lid instead. You can also purchase affordable specialty containers explicitly designed for popping kernels in the microwave.
Next, add 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil. However, you can pop the kernels without it if you don’t want it. Then, fold and close the bag and shake gently to mix the kernels and the oil. Afterward, place the folded and sealed bag in the microwave and heat on high for 3 minutes. Your microwave popcorn is ready when you hear the kernels popping in 2-second intervals.
However, if your kernels are a bit older and not popping as well, try the soaking method: Add kernels to a bowl, submerge in water, and let them soak for 10 minutes. Soaking can help kernels cook more evenly, resulting in fluffier popcorn. When that’s done, add salt, butter, and/or the popcorn seasoning of your choice.
However, it is better to opt for fine salt as it sticks to the kernels more easily.
Are Microwave Popcorn Healthy?
It is regarded as “bad” for overall health because it contains chemicals in the flavoring and packaging that have been linked to cancer and a condition known as bronchiolitis obliterans (a.k.a. “popcorn lung”).
The harmful chemicals—perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and diacetyl—are no longer used in food products and packaging in the United States. However, there are still residual concerns that some ingredients in microwave popcorn make it an unhealthy snack.
These include high amounts of saturated fat and salt (sodium), which can increase a person’s risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
What Is the Difference Between Stovetop Popcorn and Microwave Popcorn?
The main difference between them is how they’re prepared. Popcorn prepped in the microwave is cooked with electromagnetic waves generated by the microwave, while stovetop popcorn is prepared by direct heat.
Microwave popcorn also typically contains added chemicals and artificial flavors, whereas stovetop popcorn permits more control over the ingredients and flavorings used. Another difference is that microwave popcorn is typically more convenient than stovetop popcorn, as it can be cooked quickly in a pre-packaged bag.
On the other hand, stovetop popcorn permits more experimentation and creativity regarding flavorings and ingredients.
Is Microwave Popcorn High in Cholesterol?
Yes, it is often high in cholesterol as it is loaded with butter, oil, and salt. These extras are a normal part of the popcorn experience but can increase cholesterol levels. If you wish to lower your cholesterol, the best way to make microwave popcorn is to do it without salt and butter.
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Can Diabetics Eat Microwave Popcorn?
Yes, but it is not advisable. People with diabetes should only consume air-popped popcorn with minimal additives and remain cautious with microwave popcorn and pre-packaged versions. This is because they can contain high cholesterol and additives.
The only way to be sure your popcorn does not contain harmful ingredients is to use DIY methods to prepare it. The tips above will guide you, leaving you with healthy and enjoyable microwave popcorn.
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