One might be
amazed that a gourmet popcorn retailer, such as Brooklyn Popcorn, would carry,
of all things plain popcorn as one of their flavors. But the reasoning behind
it is simple. People love plain popcorn, not just for the taste, but also for
the ability to add their own seasonings for health reasons, or just to create
their own popcorn experience in the comfort of their home. Whatever the reason,
plain popcorn is a snack that is here to stay!
Healthwise,
eating plain popcorn is a no-brainer. At 31 calories per cup, it just doesn’t
get much better than that. You could have three cups of plain popcorn and still
be under 100 calories! Popcorn is full of fiber, since it is a whole grain and
is low in fat naturally. So, it fills you up without crashing at the end like
you would get with a candy bar.
Plain popcorn
is also chock full of minerals like zinc, copper and iron. As well as,
nutrients like folate and Vitamin B. The list goes on and on, but you can see
that the nutritional benefits to plain popcorn far outweigh those to potato
chips and other snack foods. The exciting thing about plain popcorn is the fact
that you can transform it into whatever flavor you want.
As a
suggestion, you can make your own trail mix with plain popcorn. Grab a bag and
add raisins and almonds to a bag of popcorn or mix with pretzels and M&Ms
for a salty-sweet, crunchy treat. You can also have fun creating your own
popcorn flavors, while monitoring how much sodium or sugar you intake.
Create a new
flavor with items that you probably already have around your house. Dash a
little hot sauce and garlic powder for a zesty-spicy treat! For a more savory
taste, shake on some ranch dressing from a packet and add grated parmesan
cheese and mix – what a combination!
You can also
make your own caramel sauce or drizzle honey or chocolate for a quick dessert.
Try different seasonings to find the one that you love the most. Make it easy
by having a bag or tin of pre-popped plain popcorn on hand. That way all you
have to do is grab some, add your own spin on it – and eat! With all the
nutritional goodness that plain popcorn has to offer, what are you waiting for?