The Popping History of Popcorn
Popcorn is one of the oldest snack foods in the world, with a history that can be traced back over 5,000 years. The origins of popcorn can be found in the Americas, where it was first cultivated by indigenous peoples in Mexico, Peru, and other regions.
The Aztecs used popcorn as decoration for their headdresses and ceremonial garb, and also popped it and enjoyed it as a snack. Popcorn was also used in religious ceremonies by the Incas, who believed it had magical powers.
When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, they discovered popcorn and brought it back to Europe, where it quickly became popular as a snack. By the 1800s, popcorn had become a popular street food in the United States, particularly at fairs and carnivals.
The first commercial popcorn machine was invented by Charles Cretors in 1885. Cretors was a candy store owner in Chicago who wanted to create a machine that could roast peanuts, but ended up inventing a machine that popped popcorn instead. His machine used steam to pop the kernels and had a revolving paddle that kept them moving to prevent burning.
By the 1920s, popcorn had become a staple snack in movie theaters, thanks in part to the invention of the popcorn machine. During the Great Depression, popcorn became a popular snack food due to its low cost and easy availability. By the 1930s, the first electric popcorn poppers were invented, making it even easier for people to enjoy this tasty snack at home.
During World War II, popcorn became a staple food for American soldiers, as it was lightweight, easy to transport, and could be popped in the field. After the war, popcorn became even more popular as a snack food, and the invention of the microwave popcorn bag in the 1970s made it even easier to prepare at home.
Today, there are many different types of popcorn poppers available, from stovetop models to electric machines to microwaveable bags. Popcorn poppers have come a long way since Charles Cretors' original steam-powered machine, but the basic concept remains the same: to heat popcorn kernels until they pop and turn into a tasty and satisfying snack.
Here are four recommended popcorn poppers:
Cuisinart EasyPop Hot Air Popcorn Maker - This is an affordable, easy-to-use popcorn maker that uses hot air to pop the kernels. It has a simple on/off switch and can make up to 10 cups of popcorn in just a few minutes. It also has a butter warming tray for easy butter melting.
Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper - This stovetop popcorn maker is a classic design that has been around for decades. It features a hand-cranked stirring mechanism that keeps the kernels moving for even popping. It can make up to 6 quarts of popcorn in just a few minutes and has a non-stick surface for easy cleaning.
Presto PopLite Hot Air Popcorn Popper - Another hot air popcorn maker, the Presto PopLite is compact and lightweight, making it easy to store and transport. It can pop up to 18 cups of popcorn in just two and a half minutes, and has a butter melting cup on top for easy butter distribution.
Great Northern Popcorn Machine - This is a larger, more professional-grade popcorn maker that is great for entertaining or commercial use. It features a stainless steel kettle that can pop up to 16 cups of popcorn at a time, and has a built-in warming deck to keep the popcorn fresh and warm. It also has a drawer for easy kernel removal and cleaning.