I love snacking while watching movies or binge-watching my favorite TV shows. And what better snack than popcorn? It’s light, crunchy and absolutely delicious. But sometimes, popping a bag of popcorn on the stovetop can be tedious. That’s where the microwave comes in! In this article, I will guide you through the process of microwaving loose popcorn, so you can have the perfect snack ready in just minutes.
Choosing the Right Popcorn
Brands
When it comes to choosing the right popcorn for microwaving, there are plenty of options available in the market. However, I recommend going for trusted brands that specifically mention they are suitable for microwaving. These brands have developed their kernels to ensure that they pop evenly and quickly in the microwave.
Pro Tip: Types of Popcorn
There are two types of popcorn kernels available – butterfly and mushroom. Butterfly popcorn has irregular shapes with “wings” that make it perfect for catching seasoning, while mushroom popcorn is rounder and less likely to catch seasoning. For microwaving, I suggest using butterfly popcorn as it pops up larger and fluffier.
Preparing the Popcorn
Measurement
Start by measuring the amount of popcorn you want to microwave. Most microwavable popcorn bags contain around 3 ounces of popcorn, so you can use that as a reference. I usually go for half a cup of kernels, which yields a satisfying amount of popcorn.
Pro Tip: Bowl Size
Choosing the right bowl size is crucial for preventing overflow during the popping process. Select a microwave-safe bowl that is at least twice the volume of the popcorn you are going to microwave. This will give the kernels enough room to expand without spilling over the edges.
Seasoning
One of the best parts about popcorn is adding your favorite seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt or get creative with a variety of flavors like cheese, caramel or even chili lime. The key is to add the seasonings after the popcorn is cooked to prevent them from burning.
Microwaving Process
Covering the Bowl
To prevent popcorn from scattering all over the microwave, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or a vented microwave cover. This will allow steam to escape while trapping most of the popping kernels inside.
Setting the Time
Now, it’s time to set the microwave to the appropriate time. It’s best to follow the instructions mentioned on the popcorn’s packaging. If no instructions are available, start with 2-3 minutes on high power for 1/2 cup of popcorn. Keep a close eye on the popcorn as it cooks to avoid burning.
Pause and Shake
When you notice that the popping slows down to about 2 seconds between pops, it’s time to carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Give it a good shake to redistribute the heat and allow any remaining kernels to pop.
Seasoning Time
Now that your popcorn is ready, it’s time to add your desired seasonings. Melted butter, powdered cheese or a sprinkle of salt – go wild with your preferred flavors and mix them well with the popcorn. The heat from the freshly popped kernels will help the seasonings stick.
Enjoying Your Delicious Popcorn
Voila! Your microwave popcorn is ready to be devoured. Find a cozy spot on the couch, grab your favorite drink, and indulge in the perfect snacking companion for your movie night or any occasion.
Remember, microwaving popcorn is more convenient and quicker than traditional stovetop popping. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the popcorn packaging, choose the right bowl size, and get creative with your favorite flavors. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of popcorn in just a matter of minutes. Happy snacking!