Are you microwaving popcorn correctly? Instant popcorn is a convenient and quick snack that makes any movie night even more enjoyable.
If you don’t have a paper bag, it is difficult to achieve crunchy popcorn without burning. However, a simple bowl can save time and make fresh made popcorn in a jiffy.
How do you microwave popcorn in a bowl? Place ¼ cup of popcorn kernels in a microwave-safe bowl, add a tablespoon of coconut oil, clarified butter or any other oil of your choice and cover with a lid. Microwave on high for 4 minutes, or until you will hear popping sounds begin to slow to 2 second intervals.
Microwave popcorn is a nutritious snacks loved by many people across the globe. The reason many individuals find popcorn to be so attractive is that it is loaded with cancer-fighting and heart-healthy polyphenols.
Whether you are making popcorn in a glass or ceramic bowl, ensure it is microwave-safe. Due to the amount of polyphenols compared to the average amount found in fruits, it is important to understand the dangers of microwave popcorn.
In this article, we are going to share microwave tips and timing to achieve pop popcorn in a bowl. Answered below are frequently asked questions about microwaving popcorn in a bowl, and with a few things you need to know about the process. Continue to read to find out!
Can you pop popcorn in a bowl in the microwave?
Yes, you can pop popcorn in a bowl in the microwave. Pour a quarter cup of popcorn kernels into a large bowl and cover with a lid, then nuke for about 4 minutes or until the popping slows to a halt.
All you need is to know the right steps, understand the protocols observed such as using the right temperature, using a microwave-safe bowl, among others, however this method does not require fat and can be done without oil.
To get started, transfer ¼ cup of popcorn kernels to a sizable microwave-safe bowl. Use a microwave-safe plate to cover the bowl if the bowl does not come with lid.
Microwave on high temperature for around 2 minutes, then continue with 1 minute intervals until popping completely slows down. Uncover the bowl to avoid from the snack getting soggy, the season to taste.
Is it safe to microwave popcorn in a bowl?
Yes, it is safe to microwave popcorn in a microwave safe bowl. Pour a ¼ cup of popcorn kernels into a microwavable bowl with a lid and nuke for 4 minutes or until the kernels stop popping.
Preparing popcorn kernels with oil in a microwave-safe glass bowl is the general guidelines to follow. Remember to cover the bowl with a lid or microwave safe plate, and microwave on high temperature.
In case you are utilizing a glass bowl or microwave popcorn popper, ensure it can tolerate high heat. The cover you use on the bowl must be a vented option because there will be lots of steam generated while cooking.
In case the vent is not available, the bowl can explode due to the build-up of intense steam pressure. If the lid or cover lacks a vent, employ parchment paper or wax paper to cover the bowl.
How do you microwave popcorn in a bowl?
When microwaving popcorns in a bowl, all you need is a large microwave-safe bowl, popcorn kernels, a large microwave-safe plate, salt and butter for optional mix-ins.
Into a microwave-safe bowl, pour around ¼ cup of popcorn kernels. It is recommended to use ⅓ cup of popcorn kernels to compensate for ones that don’t pop.
If you are ok with making a few batches, then two or three rounds would be great for a group to snack on.
Grab a microwave-safe plate to cover the bowl and set the appliance for 4 minutes. However, around 2 minutes, you will start hearing popping sounds.
4 tablespoons of popcorns kernels equates to about 10 cups of popcorn. The cooking should be stopped immediately the popping has slowed to a pop every 2 to 3 seconds in the end.
Some popcorn kernels don’t pop. That’s normal, so don’t consider adding more time as this could burn the popcorn making it not taste so good.
When opening the bowl, watch out of the steam. So, utilize an oven mitt to remove the bowl from the appliance and carefully remove the lid.
How long do you microwave popcorn in a bowl?
The ideal time for microwaving popcorn is 2-4 minutes, or until popping has slowed to 2 second intervals between each pop.
Basically, time is the chief aspect to prevent scorching of the popcorn, therefore it must be closely monitored to get the best results.
The rule of thumb is to listen to the popping sounds. When the popping slows to 2 seconds between the pops, stop the appliance and remove the bowl.
If you wait longer, it can lead to burning or scorching the popcorn.
With that in mind, the popping times do vary from one appliance to another; however, this variation for a quarter cup of popcorn kernels ranges between 2 to 4 minutes.
If needed to make bigger portion, try making two to three batches instead of overcrowding the bowl.
Tips to microwave popcorn in a bowl
Making popcorn in microwave is super easy compared to stove top method. A large bowl and press of a button is all it takes, however it can also result burning without proper caution.
Here are things to know when microwaving popcorns in a bowl:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl. Using a bowl that is not safe in the microwave can be dangerous. Some bowls might melt and mix harmful chemicals into the food, and the consumed chemical exposure could lead to health concerns.
- Choose the right popcorn kernels. In general, there are yellow or white popcorn kernels and they both should be microwavable. Consider the yellow option since it pops up much plumper in size. White popcorns appear to be tighter and smaller once popped.
- Select high-quality oil. Oil is optional, however it will provide a decadent taste, smell and overall appeal to the snack.
- Carefully observe popping sound. The recommended time is 2-4 minutes. Do not give extra time to avoid scorching or burning the popcorns. Microwaving should be stopped when the popping slows to one every 2 seconds.
- Storage requirements. After preparing popcorns in a bowl, store properly to keep them fresh. Use an airtight container to store popcorn after it has fully cooled and ensure they are kept in a cool and dry place.
Best way to microwave popcorn in a bowl
If you are microwaving enough popcorn for 2 or 3 servings, it is easy to do in batches.
The best way to microwave popcorn in a bowl is to add little salt and such as coconut, olive oil, or butter to a microwave-safe bowl. Next, add a ¼ cup of popcorn kernels and mix well.
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe vented lid and nuke on high for 2- 4 minutes. Stop the microwave once the popping reduces to 2 seconds between each pop.
Let it sit in the microwave for a minutes until the popping sounds discontinue. Remove the bowl and carefully lift the lid to serve.
Microwaving Popcorn in a Bowl: Conclusion
Microwaving popcorn in a bowl is fast and straightforward. All you need is to follow the right method, use safe tools, and carefully observe the timing for optimal doneness.
Always double check the bowl you are using is microwave safe by observing the microwave safe symbol at the bottom of the dish.
Add oil of your choice and mix well with ¼ cup of popcorn kernels. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl and cover with vented lid, this will help to release any steam while microwaving.
Start with 2 to 4 minutes at a time to microwave popcorn. At around 2 minutes time, you will hear popping sounds. Microwaving should continue until popping slows to 2 to 3 second intervals.
Once the microwaving time is over, let the bowl sit in the microwave for a minute until the popping sounds discontinue, then remove carefully.
A microwave-safe bowl is a great tool to make popcorn in the microwave. They are spacious to allow pop kernels space to expand and also can used to serve right away to reduce making dirty dishes.
Follow the tips and techniques to microwave popcorn in a bowl so that you have the best results every time.