Movie night is a favorite pastime for many, but the temptation of popcorn can sometimes be too great. If you’re looking for an alternative to popcorn that will still give you that movie theater feeling, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
In this blog post, we’ll list 15 substitutes for popcorn that are both delicious and healthy. We’ll explain the differences and similarities between each one and provide the exact ratios to use when substituting.
So whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or just want something new to try, we’ve got you covered!
Popcorn Alternatives:
- Popped sorghum
- Cauliflower popcorn
- Popped amaranth
- Puffed barley
- Green bean fries
- Popped buckwheat
- Kale chips
- Popped quinoa
- Trail mix
- Apple chips
- Water lily seeds
- Keto popcorn
- Dried fruit bites
- Lentil chips
- Dried carrot chips
Popped sorghum
Sorghum is a great option if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to popcorn. This grain is slightly sweeter and nuttier than corn, and it’s also gluten-free.
When popped, sorghum has a light, fluffy texture that’s perfect for snacking. You can even use it as a base for popcorn balls or other sweet or savory dishes.
Best of all, sorghum is loaded with nutrients like fiber, protein, and antioxidants. So if you’re looking for a healthier snack option, popped sorghum is worth trying.
Here is how you can make popped sorghum at home:
- Preheat your pan on a medium heat setting.
- Now add sorghum grain to the pan and cover it with a lid.
- Keep shaking the pan.
- Once 1/3rd of sorghum grain has popped, take them out in a separate bowl.
- Repeat the process for the remaining sorghum grains.
Cauliflower popcorn
Cauliflower popcorn is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional popcorn. Made with just cauliflower, oil, and salt, it has a fraction of the calories and fat of regular popcorn.
It’s also a good source of fiber and protein, making it a filling snack that will stay satisfied for hours. Best of all, it’s easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.
So if you’re looking for a healthier way to satisfy your popcorn cravings, give cauliflower popcorn a try. You won’t be disappointed.
Here is how you can make cauliflower popcorn at home:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- Add salt, olive oil, and any other seasoning to a large bowl.
- Add cauliflower to the bowl and mix it well.
- Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet.
- Cook for 10 minutes or until the cauliflower popcorns are done.
Popped amaranth
Popped amaranth is a great substitute for popcorn. It has a similar texture and flavor, but it is also a good vitamin C and antioxidants source. Additionally, it has fewer calories than popcorn, making it a healthier option.
There are many ways to cook amaranth. You can pop it in a pan on the stovetop or microwave. You can also add flavorings, such as salt, butter, or cheese.
Whatever way you choose to cook it, popped amaranth is a delicious and healthy alternative to popcorn.
Here is how you can make popped amaranth at home:
- Preheat the pan on a medium heat setting.
- Add the amaranth grain to the pan and place the lid on the pan.
- Keep shaking the pan.
- Once 1/3rd of amaranth grains have popped, take them out in the serving bowl.
- Now repeat the process for the remaining amaranth grains.
Puffed barley
Barley is a type of grain that does not pop when heated. Barley is soft and chewy, and it is a good source of fiber. It is also lower in calories than popcorn.
Barley does not pop when heated; it is important to cook it thoroughly before eating. barley can be boiled, baked, or fried. Boiled barley can be used as a hot cereal or added to soups and stews.
Baked barley can be used as a side dish, or it can be added to salads. Fried barley can be used as a snack food, or it can be added to main dishes.
Barley is a versatile grain that can be used in many different ways. Try substituting barley for popcorn the next time you are looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite movie snacks.
Here is how you can make puffed barley at home:
- Preheat a pan on a medium heat setting.
- Add 1/3rd of the puffed barley and put it on the lid.
- Keep shaking the pan till the barley has puffed.
- Now add another 1/3rd of the barley and cook it.
- Repeat the same process for the remaining barley.
Green bean fries
Popcorn is a classic snack, but it can be high in calories and unhealthy if not prepared properly. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to popcorn, green beans make a great substitute.
Green beans are low in calories and fat, and they’re a good source of fiber and vitamins. They also have a similar texture to popcorn, so they can satisfy your craving for something crunchy.
Green beans are a great option when you’re trying to lose weight or eat healthier because they’re filling and nutritious. So next time you’re in the mood for something salty and crunchy, reach for some green beans instead of popcorn. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy this unique popcorn substitute.
Here is how you can make green bean fries at home:
- Take a big bowl.
- Add salt, seasoning, and olive oil to the bowl.
- Add peas to the bowl and mix it well.
- Now, add eggs and a little bit of milk to another bowl and mix it well.
- Now add bread crumbs to the egg and milk mixture.
- Add the seasoned peas to the egg and milk mixture as well.
- Spread the peas on a baking sheet.
- Cook it in the oven for 25 minutes.
Popped buckwheat
Popcorn is a delicious and popular snack, but it can be high in calories and difficult to digest. On the other hand, Buckwheat is a nutrient-rich grain that is easy to digest and gentle on the stomach.
For these reasons, buckwheat makes an excellent substitute for popcorn. It is healthier for you, but it also has a lower calorie count.
Buckwheat is also a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate your blood sugar level. So the next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and healthy snack, reach for some popped buckwheat instead of popcorn.
Your taste buds and your body will thank you!
Here is how you can make popped buckwheat at home:
- Add oil to a pan preheated pan.
- Add 1/3rd of buckwheat to the pan and cover it with a lid.
- Shake the pan till the buckwheat has popped.
- Now repeat the process for the remaining buckwheat.
Kale chips
Kale chips are a delicious and nutritious alternative to popcorn. Filled with vitamins C and K, kale is a nutrient-rich superfood that provides health benefits.
In addition, kale chips are low in calories and fat, making them a filling and guilt-free snack option. Kale chips can be just as versatile as popcorn when it comes to flavor.
From savory to sweet, endless flavor combinations can be created by simply changing the seasonings used. As a result, kale chips offer a healthier and more flavorful option for those looking for a popcorn substitute.
Here is how you can make kale chips at home:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
- Remove the kale stem and cut the kale into smaller bite-size chunks.
- Drizzle the kale with some olive oil and salt.
- Spread the kale on a baking sheet.
- Microwave it for 10-15 minutes.
Popped quinoa
Popcorn has long been a popular snack, but it’s not the healthiest option. Quinoa is a good alternative because it’s a good source of iron and lower fat and calories.
It’s also gluten-free, so it’s a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Quinoa is also high in fiber, so it’s good for weight loss.
The popped quinoa can be used to replace popcorn in any recipe. It can be flavored with salt, butter, or any other seasoning.
It’s a healthy and delicious alternative to popcorn. Try it today!
Here is how you can make popped quinoa at home:
- Preheat your pan on a medium heat setting.
- Add half of the quinoa to the pan.
- Cover the pan with a lid.
- Keep shaking the pan till the quinoa has popped.
- Repeat the process for the rest of the quinoa.
Trail mix
There are many times when trail mix can be used to substitute for popcorn. For instance, if you’re looking for a healthier option that contains less fat and salt, trail mix is a great choice.
It’s also a good alternative if you’re looking for something with more flavor. Trail mix contains nuts, granola, and dried fruits, which add to the flavor profile. Additionally, trail mix contains healthy fats, which can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
So next time you’re considering popcorn as a snack, remember that trail mix is a delicious and healthy option that can provide the same satisfaction.
Apple chips
Apple chips are a great substitute for popcorn. They are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, and they have a similar crunch to popcorn. There are several cases where you can use apple chips to replace popcorn.
For instance, if you are looking for a healthier option, apple chips are good. They are also a good option if you avoid unhealthy fats and oils. Lastly, apple chips are a great option if you want something gluten-free.
Popcorn is often coated in salt and butter, which can be unhealthy. Apple chips are a great alternative because they are baked and not fried.
This means that they are lower in fat and calories. Apple chips are a healthy and delicious substitute for popcorn.
Here is how you can make apple chips at home:
- Preheat the oven to 250 degrees.
- Cut thin apple slices.
- Season the apple slices with salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
- Bake it for 45-60 minutes.
Water lily seeds
Water lily seeds make an excellent gluten-free alternative to popcorn. They have a similar crunchy texture and can be flavored in various ways. Additionally, water lily seeds are perfect for people with nut allergies, as they are often used as a replacement for peanuts.
There are several benefits to using water lily seeds as a popcorn substitute. First, they are naturally gluten-free and do not require any special preparation.
Second, they are extremely versatile and can be used in sweet or savory dishes. Finally, water lily seeds are an excellent source of fiber and protein, making them a healthier option than traditional popcorn.
Keto popcorn
Keto popcorn. This low-carb, high-fat snack is perfect for those on the keto diet, as it is low in carbs and calories but still provides the satisfying crunch and flavor of traditional popcorn.
Here is how you can make keto popcorns at home:
- Chop your favorite cheese into bite-size pieces.
- Leave the cheese for 24 hours to dry out.
- Now, bake it in the oven at 160 degrees for 10 minutes.
Dried fruit bites
Replace your unhealthy popcorn with dried fruit bites for a tasty and satisfying snack. You can use any dried fruit, but some best include apricots, plums, and figs.
The sweetness of the fruit will satisfy your sugar cravings, and the chewiness will help fill you up. Dried fruit is packed with nutrients and fiber, making it a much healthier option than popcorn.
If you’re looking for a little extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt or a drizzle of chocolate to your dried fruit bites. Just watch your portion size, as dried fruit can be high in calories.
Lentil chips
Lentil chips are a great gluten-free alternative to popcorn. They’re high in protein and extremely healthy. Plus, they come in various flavors, so you’re sure to find one you love.
Here is how you can make lentil chips at home:
- Soak the lentils in water overnight.
- The next day, drain the lentils and blend them with seasoning.
- Preheat the oven to 250 degrees.
- Spread the mixture on a baking tray.
- Bake it for 30 minutes till the mixture turns golden brown.
Dried carrot chips
Carrots are a versatile vegetable that can be used in various dishes, from soups and stews to salads and desserts. However, they can also be enjoyed as healthy snack food.
Carrot chips are a great alternative to popcorn, and they offer several benefits. Rich in fiber and vitamins, carrot chips can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthier option than many traditional snacks. And because they are made from whole carrots, they retain all of the nutritional value of the vegetable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best popcorn substitute for kids?
The best popcorn substitute for kids would be dried carrot chips or trail mix. Both of these alternatives are healthy and easy to prepare. You can also make apple chips for your kids. However, they might take more time to prepare.
What is the best popcorn substitute for braces?
One of the top cons of having braces is that you can not eat popcorn. But don’t worry, you can snack on apple chips or small fruit bites while watching your favorite movie.
In conclusion
Whether you are looking for a healthier option, a gluten-free alternative, or something that fits into your keto diet, we have outlined several popcorn substitutes that will satisfy your snacking needs.
From apple chips to lentil chips, there is sure to be a substitute that appeals to you. So swap out your unhealthy popcorn for one of these delicious popcorn alternatives today!