Popcorn is an American institution. Very few things are as ubiquitous, as universal, and as healthy as popcorn. It is a food that is enjoyed on many occasions. From moviegoers who ask for extra butter to bar-goers who enjoy their crunch with their beers. From birthday party organizers relying on it for finger foods to families huddling together in front of a movie, popcorn is a food to share.
There is a lot of talk about gourmet popcorn, but there is no real definition of what exactly it is. There are qualities that the gourmet popcorn and gourmet popcorn companies share, and there are traits that differentiate some types of gourmet flavored popcorn from the rest of the package. This article explores three of these traits to help you find great popcorn at a great price.
A lot of flavors
One thing all gourmet flavored popcorn companies share is a love of trying to infuse their products with new and interesting flavors. Gone are the days when the only options for popcorn were plain, with butter, cheddar, or caramel. Gourmet popcorn makers are constantly pushing the limits as they try to find the next great flavor.
Some of the newer flavors of popcorn are spicy like cinnamon and jalapeno. Some flavors are sweet like chocolate and almond nut. And some flavors are weird, unique flavors aren’t meant to stick around for more than a season or two. It seems that a large part of what makes popcorn gourmet is the willingness on the part of the manufacturer to go further and expand its popcorn line to include new and interesting entrees.
Thorough construction
Perhaps the most important thing about gourmet flavored popcorn is its construction or how it is made. The methods used to pop popcorn and add flavor will have a great influence on the result of the popcorn.
Air popping over high heat is the best and most efficient way to make fluffy, delicious popcorn. However, using high-quality all-natural popcorn is also very important. Gourmet flavored popcorn toppings are almost always placed immediately after popping. This ensures that the flavors and toppings stick to themselves when everything cools down.
Gourmet is healthier
Perhaps the biggest difference between gourmet and microwave or store bought popcorn is the nutritional value of the three options. Both microwave and store-bought tripe are often loaded with preservatives and have ingredients added for both cooking and flavoring. These ingredients make these varieties higher in salts and sugars.
Gourmet varieties, on the other hand, generally don’t add more than natural flavors. This means that they are lower in salts and sugars, they are a good source of fiber and a healthy snack in all aspects. However, always make sure to check that the popcorn you are buying is made from natural popcorn and is healthy for both you and your family.
