It’s no secret that microwaving popcorn in a bag seems like the easiest way to make it. But what if I told you there was an even easier way? A way that doesn’t involve any bags at all?
That’s right, you can microwave popcorn without a bag, and it’s incredibly easy. All you need is a bowl, some popcorn kernels, and your microwave. So why not give it a try? You might be surprised at how much better the results are!
Believe me, I’ve been doing it plenty of times.
Growing up, my mom always made popcorn on the stove or microwaved it in a bowl. It was a staple in our house, and I always loved it. But once I moved out, I started making it in the microwave using those little baggies. It was easy and convenient, but the popcorn never turned out as well as my mom’s.
Then one day, I decided to try microwaving popcorn without a bag. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer! The popcorn came out crunchier than ever before, and it was so much cheaper to make too. Plus, there was no need for any extra supplies I didn’t already own.
Ever since then, I’ve been making popcorn this way.
How do you microwave popcorn without a bag?
To microwave popcorn without a bag, place ¼ cup of corn kernels and butter in a large microwave-safe bowl with a lid. Cover the bowl, then microwave it for 2 to 4 minutes. Once you stop hearing pops every 3 seconds, remove the bowl from the microwave.
I recommend microwaving it for about 2 minutes if you use a standard 1000, then stopping the microwave and shaking the bowl carefully. Afterward, continue microwaving for an additional minute. Be sure to keep checking it every 30 seconds, though, as you don’t want your popcorn to burn in the microwave!
After 3-4 minutes of cooking, you’ll have some delicious popcorn on your hands. Be careful though, as it will be very hot and you’ll probably burn your mouth!
Can you microwave popcorn without a bag?
Yes, microwaving your popcorn without a bag is simple and easy. You only need a substitute microwave-safe container with a lid such as a silicone popcorn bowl or glass bowl. You can use any bowl you have in the house as long as it is large enough and microwave safe.
When you’ve got the bowl, simply place a plate or lid on top of the bowl, set the microwave on high for 2-4 minutes, and wait for the popping sound to slow down. Once it does, switch off the microwave and enjoy your snack.
However, I must inform you to avoid using the popcorn button on your microwave. Unless you have one of the best microwaves around that is smart enough to know when the corn is done popping.
Is it safe to microwave popcorn without a bag?
It is safe to microwave popcorn without a bag as long as you follow the instructions and use a microwave-safe dish. In fact, by not making popcorn in a bag you are avoiding a lot of the risks associated with microwaving popcorn.
Microwaving popcorn in a bag can be dangerous because most popcorn bags contain PFOA also known as perfluorooctanoic acid. This substance can cause cancer. In its unheated state, this isn’t an issue, however, once heated it gets mixed with the popcorn and creates a bioaccumulative and harmful chemical.
However, it’s not only the potential for chemicals like PFOA that we need to worry about; we also need to be concerned with the risk of burns as well as the risk of overcooking the popcorn and the bag exploding.
Even the bag itself is dangerous if not disposed of properly because it can catch on fire.
But for the most part, these issues can be easily avoided by not microwaving a bag.
How long does it take to microwave popcorn without a bag?
Making popcorn without a bag in the microwave typically takes between 2 to 3 minutes in most microwaves. However, the timings may vary depending on the wattage of the microwave as well as other factors.
As a general rule, you can expect it to take at least 2 minutes and at most 4 minutes. After the 4 minutes are up, you can check on the doneness of the popcorn by listening to how often they are popping.
If there are some un-popped kernels around, you may need to put it back in for another 30 seconds or so. Or microwave in 30-second intervals until they are all done.
What is the best way to make popcorn without a bag in the microwave?
Is it better to pop popcorn in a bag or without one?
What is the best way to make popcorn without a bag in the microwave?
The best way to make popcorn without a bag in the microwave is to use a microwave-safe bowl and coat it with cooking spray or oil. Add 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels and cover the bowl with a plate or lid. You may even cover it with a paper towel or parchment paper. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until the popping slows down. Remove from the microwave and enjoy!
Is it better to pop popcorn in a bag or without one?
There are pros and cons to both methods. Popping popcorn in a bag typically results in fewer unpopped kernels, and the bag can be used as a bowl. However, it can be difficult to get the hang of making popcorn out of the bag.
Popping popcorn without a bag is cheaper and you can use whatever type of oil you want, but there is a higher chance of unpopped kernels. You’ll also be able to make more popcorn at once when doing it without a bag.
Furthermore, cooking your popcorn with no bag is considered the safer route since you aren’t exposed to any chemicals that could potentially leak from the bag.
Tips to Microwave popcorn without a bag
So, whether you’re looking to avoid the risks of chemicals or potential burns, or just want a healthier snack, here are some tips for how to microwave popcorn without using a bag:
- Make sure that you use a microwave-safe container. Tempered Glass is typically the best option, however, you can also use ceramic, or silicone popcorn bowls.
- Spray a small amount of oil in the bottom of the bowl, on the inside.
- Always listen for the popping to slow down.
- Heat a glass of water in the microwave first to stop the popcorn from burning.
- Microwave popcorn on high for 2-3 minutes. Then use intervals until complete.
- The lower the wattage of your microwave, the longer it may take to completely pop all the kernels.
- Don’t microwave for longer than 4 minutes.
- After popping, remove any unpopped kernels, or burn pieces that remain in the bowl of popcorn. Then pour into a bowl.
- You can even add more butter to the kernels before microwaving if you like, then salt and season to taste!
The Bottom Line
Making popcorn without a bag in the microwave is not only a great way to save money, but it’s also a healthier option. You can choose whatever oil or butter you want to use, and there’s no need to worry about any dangerous chemicals that might be present in bags. Plus, with the few simple tips above, you can avoid burning your popcorn or having unpopped kernels.
So go ahead and ditch the bag – your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ
How can I make homemade microwave popcorn using a brown paper lunch bag?
To make homemade microwave popcorn, put 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels in a brown paper lunch bag. Fold the top of the bag twice to seal it and place it in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes until you hear the popping slow down. Transfer your popped popcorn to a serving bowl and add melted butter or olive oil for flavor.
What is the best way to avoid burnt popcorn when making microwave popcorn?
The best way to avoid burnt popcorn is by setting your microwave on high power and listening carefully as you cook. Stop cooking once there are more than two seconds between pops, even if that means not all kernels have popped yet.
Can I use an air popper instead of a paper bag when making homemade popcorn?
Yes, an air popper is another great option for making homemade popcorn without any added oils or fats. Simply pour your desired amount of kernels into the machine and let it do its job!
Is store-bought microwave popcorn healthy?
Store-bought microwave popcorn can be high in sodium and unhealthy additives like artificial flavors and preservatives. Making your own with just plain kernels in a brown paper bag or air popper is a healthier alternative.
What are some creative ways to season my popped homemade microwaved or air-popped corn?
Some delicious seasoning options include parmesan cheese, garlic powder, chili powder, cinnamon sugar, ranch seasoning mix, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor! Just sprinkle over your freshly popped corn while still warm from cooking.
How can I make fresh popcorn at home using the glass bowl method?
To make fresh popcorn at home using the glass bowl method, you will need a microwave safe plate, unpopped popcorn, vegetable oil, and a Pyrex bowl. First, pour 1/4 cup of unpopped popcorn into the Pyrex bowl and drizzle it with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Cover the top of the bowl with a microwave safe plate and cook on high for about 2-3 minutes or until there are long pauses between pops. Carefully remove from microwave and enjoy your homemade snack!
What is an easy air popped popcorn recipe that requires just a few ingredients?
An easy air popped popcorn recipe that requires just a few ingredients includes air popped popcorn, canola oil, chili powder, garlic powder, dry ranch dressing mix and nutritional yeast. Simply pop some air-popped corn in large bowl then drizzle butter over it followed by sprinkling chili powder to taste along with garlic powder & dry ranch dressing mix before tossing everything together well.
Can I use brown paper bags to make my own snack cuisine?
Yes! Brown paper bags are great for making your own snack cuisine such as homemade cool fresh popcorn. To do this you will need brown paper bags (lunch size), unpopped kernels of corn (about 1/4 cup per bag), vegetable oil (about 1 tsp per bag) and salt to taste. Place all ingredients inside each bag then fold down twice tightly so no steam escapes during cooking time which should be around two minutes in most microwaves.
How do I keep my freshly made popcorn cool?
To keep your freshly made hot homemade snack cool after popping it in a paper or glass bowl method simply transfer it into another large clean mixing or serving dish where there’s enough space for stirring without spilling any out while adding toppings like melted butter or grated cheese etc., then let sit uncovered until cooled down completely before enjoying!