Just like millions of others, you must be a fan of the beloved snack popcorn. Once you know it's delicious taste, it’s hard to resist. The crispy, fluffy texture and still warm nature are loved by adults and kids alike. Upon giving, you can finish up the entire bowl in one go. However, popcorn often leaves you with leftovers.
What do you do when you’re left with leftover popcorn? You throw it away? Then don’t! It is known that leftover popcorn can become stale and unappetising. Stale popcorn loses its crunch and flavour and can be disappointing. But do you know that there are tips on how you can revive stale popcorn? Well, reheating popcorn to regain its crunch might seem simple, but achieving a perfect balance of crispy and fluffy can be a bit tricky. However, fear not! With simple and right techniques, you can again revive the stale popcorn. Here are a few tips to help you reheat popcorn like a pro.
- Use The Oven For Even Heating
One of the foolproof methods to retain its crunchiness and flavour is reheating the popcorn in the oven. You need to preheat the oven to around 150°C. Meanwhile, spread the popcorn evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Heat for 5-7 minutes and check regularly to prevent burning. The gentle heat of the oven ensures even reheating of the popcorn without compromising on the texture.
- Opt For The Stovetop Technique
This process of reheating allows you to have full control over the popcorn’s temperature and prevents sogginess. To achieve the stovetop technique, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Now add the popcorn to the dry pan and cover it with a lid. You need to shake the pan regularly to avoid burning and ensure an even reheating of the pan. You can reheat for 2-3 minutes or until the popcorn is warm and crispy. This method preserves the popcorn’s original texture and flavour.
- Revive Stale Popcorn With A Moisture Boost
You can easily regain the crispness of the stale popcorn with a simple moisture infusion. To achieve this, place the popcorn in a microwave-safe bowl and sprinkle a few drops of water over it. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid to trap the moisture. Microwave the popcorn on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the popcorn reaches the desired warmth and texture. The added moisture helps to regain the kernels, making them softer and more enjoyable.
- Avoid Microwaving For Extended Periods
Although it is convenient, microwaving popcorn for an extended period can lead to uneven heating and thus potential burning. To prevent this, it is essential to microwave for a short span of time, for instance, for 20-30 seconds at a time, stirring and shaking the container where the popcorn is placed between each interval. This will allow the popcorn to have an even heating thus, reducing the risk of overheating, not compromising on its flavour and texture. Besides, avoid using high power settings which can cause the popcorn to scorch.
- Store Reheated Popcorn Properly
It is essential to properly store the reheated popcorn to maintain its freshness. Store the popcorn in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to prevent its exposure to moisture and air which can cause them to lose their crispness. Place the container in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. Reheat the amount of popcorn you plan to consume to avoid reheating several times which can diminish its quality over time.