Popcorn Celebrations

Have you ever wondered why corn pops? The outer transparent hull is dry and hard, trapping moisture inside as well as keeping outside sources of moisture from seeping inward. The inner endosperm layer is made up of hard starch that is rock solid until heat is introduced. As the kernel heats up, pressure continually builds inside the hull, causing it to expand until the pressure exceeds the strength of the outer hull. As the steam escapes the result is a popped, fluffy kernel of corn. Popcorn manufacturers carefully dry the kernels to retain about 14% moisture inside. Popcorn may seem hard and dry, but without the proper moisture, there will be unpopped kernels left behind. We always called them the “duds” at the bottom of the bowl. Improper heating can also cause a failure to pop. Archaeologists have discovered evidence of popping corn dating back thousands of years.

I would love to have witnessed the first person to accidentally drop dried corn into the fire only to be surprised by it popping everywhere and transforming into something even better. I prefer to cook popcorn on top of the stove using scented coconut oil. Although you must be more cautious with kids around high heat, cooking it in the microwave is just not as adventurous as doing it together at the stovetop, amongst laughter and squeals as a few kernels always seem find a way to escape out of the pot. I use this wonderful glass lid I found from the Modern Innovations company. It fits multiple sizes of pots and has a hole built into the lid. Steam can escape while still being able to watch the kernels dance in the hot oil, then quickly pop and fill the pot to the top. However, if you only have bagged microwave or store-bought popped corn, this cooked topping would still work well. I also use this miniature commercial version popper that always delights bigger groups of kids at parties and holiday gatherings. Once the popcorn is completely cooled, allow your youngster to fill up some holiday themed bags to have a their own gift to share with others. It will be something they can be proud to have had a part in making, preparing, and giving.

1/2 cup popcorn kernels

2 Tablespoons coconut oil

2 Tablespoons maple syrup (can substitute honey)

2 Tablespoons peanut butter or any nut butter

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla

Heat the first 2 ingredients over medium heat until whisked and blended well. Add the nut butter until it is a smooth consistency when stirred or whisked and turn off the heat. Add the last 2 ingredients and whisk until well blended. You can add the popped corn back to the pot and stir well until the popcorn is evenly coated in the topping or carefully pour it over the popcorn in the large bowl and stir with a spoon to evenly distribute the topping. You can double or triple this recipe if needed to fill gift bags. Just make sure you use a large enough pot to accommodate the amount of popped corn you have in order to combine the topping and the popped corn.