Popcorn Day

National Popcorn Day is annually observed on January 19th.

Popcorn started to become popular in the United States in the middle 1800s. It wasn’t until Charles Cretors, a candy-store owner, developed a machine for popping corn with steam that the tasty treat became more abundantly poppable. By 1900 he had horse-drawn popcorn wagons going through the streets of Chicago.

Americans consume around 17 billion quarts of popcorn each and every year. That’s over 52 quarts for each and every man, woman, and child in the country per year. This statistic makes it one of the most popular snacks in the United States.

About two-thirds of the popcorn consumed in the United States is consumed in the home. The other third is served at theaters and sporting events.

Tired of plain popcorn, try the following three recipes.

Nacho Popcorn: Mix together: 1/2 cup melted Butter, 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan Cheese, 2 tablespoons Dried Parsley Flakes, 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt, 1 teaspoon Chili Powder, and 4-6 drops Hot Pepper Sauce. Drizzle over 5 quarts of popped popcorn and toss until well coated.

Pizza Popcorn: Mix together: 1/3 cup melted Butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Cheese, 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Salt, 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano, 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil, 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder, and 1/4 teaspoon Salt. Drizzle over 2-1/2 quarts of popped popcorn. Mix well. Spread onto cookie sheet. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Chili Popcorn: Mix together: 2 tablespoons melted Butter, 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard, 2 teaspoons Chili Powder, 1/4 teaspoon Salt, and 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cumin. Drizzle over 3 quarts of popped popcorn and toss until well coated.

Will you be eating popcorn today?

Nancy Roe
Author