Delicious, fluffy, and crisp popcorn is the ultimate snack for every occasion; no one in their right mind will pass on freshly made popcorn. But when you end up with popcorn leftovers, you probably ask yourself how to keep popcorn fresh. Glad you asked because we’ll be telling you everything you need to know on the matter.
We’ve all been guilty of throwing away popcorn that’s gone soggy, but instead of discarding it, you need to learn how to store your popcorn properly. Did you know you can store popcorn that stays fresh even after you popped it? Well, you can. The reason why learning how to to keep popcorn fresh is almost a life-saving skill everyone should know.
It may be intimidating, especially if you don’t spend much time in the kitchen, but you need not worry; the process of how to keep popcorn fresh is quite simple. However, it does require a few tips and tricks we’ll be more than happy to share with you. Keep reading and find out how to keep popcorn fresh the right way.
FAQ’s
How long does popcorn last?
Popcorn doesn’t have a long shelf-life; it won’t stay fresh for more than a few days. If stored the right way, you can have fresh popcorn for up to two weeks.
How to make popcorn cool down faster?
Popcorn doesn’t take very long to cool. If you’re in a hurry, you can spread it out on baking sheets to cool faster.
Where can popcorn be store?
Popcorn should be store in an airtight container. If you don’t have a jar or rigid storage container, use a sealable plastic bag. Remove all of the air before closing the bag.
Should popcorn be store in the fridge?
Absolutely not; get your popcorn as far away from the fridge as possible. If you place your popcorn in the fridge, this will introduce moisture making the popcorn stale.
How to season plain popcorn?
If your popcorn is plain, toss it with melted butter and salt or your choice of seasonings. You could sprinkle cheesy powder, curry powder, or cinnamon sugar. If you want to get really adventurous, you can mix the popcorn with caramel or chocolate sauce.
How long will popcorn kennels last?
While popped popcorn only lasts a couple of weeks, dry popcorn kernels will last for 2 years if you store them at room temperature. Keeping it stored at room temperature is crucial to retain its freshness. Make sure the kernel doesn’t dry up by storing it in an airtight container, or properly sealed microwave-ready bags, at room temperature, preferably out of direct sunlight.
Is popcorn good for you?
In addition to being a popular snack enjoyed by kids of all ages, popcorn also has many health benefits. Its fiber content can help digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and blood sugar, and prevent aging.
How to tell if popcorn has gone bad?
For unpopped kernels, the shell will dry, and the kernel will no longer pop. It may also appear darker, and the smell may be a little different from fresh ones.
Can popcorn be frozen?
Freezing cooked popcorn may lengthen its shelf life. By doing this, you may keep your popcorn fresh for a year. However, you shouldn’t freeze unpopped kernels, as it could affect their ability to pop correctly.
How to keep popcorn fresh
There are a few scenarios in which you can make your popcorn stays fresh.
Storing homemade popcorn
- Make your popcorn as you would normally do without adding any seasoning: If you add butter, salt, or any type of savoring, you may end up with soggy popcorn.
- Allow the popcorn to cool down: This is really important because if you put hot popcorn into a container, you will trap moisture turning your popcorn into a soggy mess.
- Pack your popcorn into a container: Now that your popcorn has cool down completely, it is time to transfer it into a glass or plastic airtight container. You can either fill the container as much as you can or use a container just big enough for the amount of popcorn you want to store. If you use a container that’s too big, popcorn will slate faster.
- Store the popcorn at room temperature: If you followed the steps and didn’t season your popcorn, store it at room temperature, and you can expect to have popcorn for up to two weeks. Make sure the airtight container in a dry and dark environment such as your kitchen cabinet or pantry. Exposure to light may dry your popcorn over time.
- Season your popcorn: When you are ready for consumption, flavor the popcorn before you eat it. Just toss it with melted butter and salt, or add any of your favorite spices.
Storing store-bought popcorn
Let’s imagine you need to store leftover store-bought popcorn that you made. Then follow steps one through four. However, you will need to check the container with your popcorn every few days to see if it’s still fresh. This is because store-bought popcorn is already covered in flavoring; it may become chewy within a few days.
Storing uncooked popcorn
- Open the packaging of the popcorn.
- Put the contents of the package into an airtight container
- You may also use microwave-ready bags for easy microwave cooking
- Make sure there is no air when you seal the container close
- Place the container in a dark and dry environment, such as your kitchen cabinet or pantry
- Avoid placing the unpopped kernels inside the refrigerator as the cold environment can dry out the kernels
Freezing cooked popcorn
- Seal your popcorn in an airtight, freezer-safe container
- Add a layer or two of plastic wrap between the lid and the popcorn
- Wrap your container in a freezer-grade plastic or foil and set it on a level surface in your freezer
- When you’re ready to eat your popcorn, remove it from the freezer and start snacking!
How to bring back stale popcorn
- Preheat the oven to 250 °F (121 °C)
- Spread the popcorn on a sheet, put as much stale popcorn as you like on it
- Arrange the popcorn, so it’s in a single layer
- If you need to revive a lot of stale popcorn, reheat it in batches
- Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven
- Leave it, so it crisps up for about five minutes
- If the popcorn is still a little stale, heat it for 1 more minute
- Season the popcorn before you eat it, adding your favorite flavors
Tips you should know about How to keep popcorn fresh
- Glass jars with good lids and metal tins can also be an alternative to where you store your cooked popcorn.
- Avoid placing these containers near the sink or the stove, where steam is most likely to develop.
- Refrigerating already cooked popcorn will dry it out, thus making it hard to pop.
- Discard popcorn that appears to have any discoloration, has an odd taste, and is noticeable moldy.
- Once you remove your popped popcorn from the freezer, you want to avoid refreezing, which will diminish the quality and taste.