Popcorn is said to have originated thousands of years ago by the Aztecs and that they may have used it for decorating clothes for ceremonial gatherings and for eating.  Popcorn is it’s own specific seed, it is not sweet corn that is left to dry. We grow multiple varieties of popcorn on our farm, Butterfly, Mushroom, Strawberry to name a few. It’s a rather easy crop to grow and planted in the late Spring in rows just like sweet corn. The husk is brown when harvested in September and October and the cob is dry to the touch. The corn is husked and left to dry for weeks after harvest making it the perfect winter snack and unique holiday stocking stuffer or hostess gift for the ultimate foodie!

Sweet corn is considered a vegetable while popping corn is considered a grain, and technically a fruit in botanical terms, as they originate from the seed or the flowering part of the plant. Popcorn is a healthy snack full of antioxidants and fiber and is low calorie and all natural making it the perfect choice. Popcorn can be prepared and stored in a variety of easy ways. If you prefer you may place the whole cob in your microwave in a medium bag with the top folded over twice and then popped on your popcorn setting. Or you may choose to remove the kernels from the cob and pop in oil on your stovetop in a heavy pan with a tight fitting lid. Check out our complete recipe for popping corn here.

Storing popcorn can be done according to your choice as well. You may leave it on the cob and store in cool, dry place and it will last for a long time. Or you may decide to remove the kernels from the cob and store in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid in your pantry. Either way it’s great to have on hand as a budget-friendly, tasty & healthy, super fast snack when the craving strikes. 

Your popcorn can be tailored to your tastes using simple Amish butter and Himalayan salt or re-invented to include a variety of exotic spices such as Moroccan, Jamaican, Mexican and so much more! Visit our farm store or website for idea inspirations and to view our spice list for your endless taste combinations!

Popcorn is not only a delicious snack it also is a sustainable decoration for the holidays. String popped corn (we find the mushroom variety works best) with fresh cranberries to use as garland for your Christmas tree. Then place the garland outside for the birds when finished using for your indoor decorations. The wildlife will enjoy the popped corn and cranberries and the garland adds a festive and colorful touch to your backyard trees for the Winter. You may also choose to make a fun craft with the kids, corn husk dolls, which can be a toy, a great holiday ornament for your tree or  used as a creative gift tag. Take the husks from the popped corn and shape into a doll using tightly wrapped rubber bands to form the legs, arms, body & head. You can paint or decorate them or keep them natural. You can also use the corn silk for doll hair and get as creative as you wish! 

Any way you pop it, our homegrown popcorn is fun to eat and a  healthy, sustainable option for all! Eat in season with us on our regenerative farm to enjoy all of the healthy benefits nature provides. 

Best wishes from our farm kitchen to yours!