Today is National Popcorn Day.

Americans consume some 16 billion quarts of this whole grain, excellent snack. That amounts to 52 quarts for every person.

Popcorn is low in calories. Without oil, air popper, popcorn has only 31 calories per cup. Oil-popped it is only 55 per cup.

Popcorn is a whole grain. It is made up of three components: the germ, endosperm, and pericarp (also know as the hull).

The introduction of popcorn in movie theaters came with talking movies.

Theatre owners did not sell popcorn in their theaters, they felt it was messy. Smart sellers set up popcorn poppers or rented storefront space next to theaters. They sold popcorn to movie goers, on their way into the theatre. Eventually, theatre owners realized the income potential and started installing popcorn poppers inside their theaters. The ones who refused to sell popcorn, went out of business.

One of the few luxuries during the depression, was the 5 and 10 cent bags of popcorn. Popcorn sales increased throughout the Depression since it was so affordable. An important reason for this increase, was the introduction of popcorn into movie theatres.

Stove-Top Popping
To pop popcorn on a range-top, assemble the following:
• Large 3 to 4 quart pan, lid cannot be tight, that allows steam to escape
• Popcorn kernels to cover the bottom of the pan, one layer deep
• 1/3 cup of oil for every cup of kernels
Important hint: Don’t use butter!
Heat the oil to 400 – 460 degrees Fahrenheit (if the oil smokes, it is too hot).
Test the oil on a couple of kernels.
If they pop, add the rest, cover the pan.
Shake to evenly spread the oil.
When the popping begins to slow, remove the pan from the stove-top.
The heated oil will still pop the remaining kernels.

Salting
Pre-salting kernels toughens popcorn.
Salt popped popcorn — OR eat as is.
General Measure Rule
1 ounce kernels = 1 quart popped.

If you want to see recipes on this site of popcorn or other things, let me know. There are many popcorn recipes on the Net but we will be happy to share some of our favorites with you.

Happy Popping! Enjoy!