Some time ago I stopped buying microwave popcorn. Mostly because of the unknown junk that makes up the 'natural flavor', but also because for less than a box of 3 microwave bags, you can buy a bag of plain popping corn that will pop up into probably a dozen or more big bowls.
We have an air popper, and that's what we usually use. But did you know that you can also pop it in a lunch bag in the microwave? This is best for times when you just want a personal size serving. First, you will need a paper lunch sack, popping corn, olive oil (or oil of choice), salt, and a stapler. Yep, a stapler.
Dump some corn in the bag. I don't really measure, but I would say about 1/4 cup. Drizzle a little oil over it--2 tsp. maybe--and sprinkle with salt. I've heard that you can do it with no oil, but I've never tried it. Now fold the top of the bag over and put a staple in each corner. I can't tell you why, but I promise you the staples will not cause any problems in your microwave. No sparks, nothin'. However, I can't be held responsible for any issues you may have, and will therefore recommend that you use staples at your own risk, and consider using masking tape instead.
Put the bag in the microwave and nuke on high for about two to three minutes. Listen for the popping to slow down just like with commercial microwave popcorn so you can stop it if necessary.
If you like, get some of these cute popcorn boxes at Dollar Tree to hold your snack, since the bag will be greasy.
It's cheap, it's healthful, it's got lots of fiber, and it Works For Me! Works For Me Wednesday has moved to We Are THAT Family. Go visit the new hostess!
15 comments:
Came over from WFMW... this is an AWESOME idea! I've never heard of this. I've been buying the organic microwave popcorn, but you still don't know what's in that stuff. Can't wait to try this. Thanks!
Neat idea! I will try it soon! We used to buy bagged popcorn and pop it ourselves, but at some point I started buying microwave again ... I like cheap and good!
Thanks for the incentive and I will use masking tape!
PS- I just Stumbled this:-)
Actually you don't need to add the oil. It works fine without. And then you can reuse the bag!
Good to know! I've been wanting to buy an air popper, but if I can do it in a bag in the microwave, that's just as good! MamaMay, good to know you don't have to add oil.
Sheryl
What a great idea! I'm sure it's lower in calories then even the 100 calorie bags.
You're a brave woman for putting staples in your microwave! I think I'll have to try it with the masking tape...
When you make the "personal size" does the rest of your family come out of the woodworks because of the smell?
I need to give this a go! I've been popping popcorn on the stovetop, but it can certainly be a hassle. Thanks so much for the tip!
fun idea! I will have to try that out! i'm sure my girls would enjoy it!
Oh my goodness! You are brilliant! I guess that's why I like stopping over. :)
(I'm hoping it will rub off, lol!)
Great idea!
Ha! I love how you said "nuke," my dad used to always use that word.
I read this on another WFMW post a while back and we do it all th time. We go oil-free though and it comes out just fine. You just have to be diligent about listening to the popping...when it slows down you have to stop it or it can burn easily.
:)
That is SO great to know! We also stopped buying popcorn a long time ago, and it's such a hassle to pop it on the stove. I had no idea you could use a paper sack to pop it in the microwave. Thanks so much for sharing!
PS. Also wanted to let you know that I'm working on a response to the question you asked me on my blog (www.intostillwaters.com). I'll let you know as soon as I have it posted.
LOVE this idea since the COLOR of microwave popcorn is what scares me! :) The staple on a tea bag doesn't cause problems either...
We do this all the time - no preservatives or chemicals. Yeah!
Post a Comment