There has been a lot of press lately about the dangers of store-bought microwave popcorn. It contains about 20 different chemicals, including ink, glue and Diacetyl. Diacetyl becomes toxic when inhaled, but is added to popcorn to enhance the buttery flavor. Yum….Not!
Popcorn has become a favorite snack for my kids after school. They love being able to make it themselves, but we needed to find an easy alternative, sans chemicals. My friend, Kim, told me that she had been microwaving it herself in a paper bag, so I thought I would give it a go….and voila! You can change the toppings up or just eat it plain, of course. I highly suggest this version, though….
First, measure out 2 tablespoons popcorn kernels. Feel free to use any kind you like.
Pour the kernels into a paper lunch bag.
Fold about 1/2 inch at the top of the bag and crease well. Fold two more times, reinforcing the crease when you are done.
Microwave on high until you hear the popping slow a bit. Mine took between 1 minute,15 seconds and 1 minute, 20 seconds. Just like other microwave popcorns, it will burn if cooked too long.
Now, you have perfect, chemical-free air popped microwave popcorn. You can eat it just as is, but what is the fun in that?
I suggest the following topping: Combine 2 teaspoons butter and 2 teaspoons maple syrup in a small bowl. Microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Pour microwave popcorn into a bowl, toss with melted maple butter, sprinkle with a bit of the smoked Maldon sea salt (regular kosher salt will also do) and serve! Hope you enjoy this as much as I did. Let me know what variations you try. I am pretty sure it would be fabulous with cinnamon, cayenne, chili powder, or even double the maple butter; )
