Little Popcorn

Food historian Cynthia Clampitt pens the epic story of what happened when Mesoamerican farmers bred a nondescript grass into a staff of life so prolific, so protean, that it represents nothing less than one of humankind's greatest achievements. Blending history with expert reportage, she traces the disparate threads that have woven corn into the fabric of our diet, politics, economy, science, and cuisine. At the same time she explores its future as a source of energy and the foundation of seemingly limitless green technologies. The result is a bourbon-to-biofuels portrait of the astonishing plant that sustains the world.

Popcorn Favorites: Everything You Want to Know about Popcorn and More by John (Jack) Podojil Trafford Publishing reviewed by J.A. Garcia “May all of your days and nights resemble popping corn, Bright, cheerful and full of wonderful mouth-watering flavor.” An author of motivational books and proponent of education, Podojil combines his love of popcorn with his passion for inspiring children to learn in this volume that is both informative and entertaining. Podojil begins by providing readers with basic facts about this salty snack, briefly exploring the various types of kernels as well as the science behind what makes this particular type of corn pop. The chapters that follow provide greater detail on the history of popcorn, several mechanical innovations that forever changed the way popcorn is made, and a wealth of Native American folklore surrounding this tasty and versatile treat. Readers will also find information on surprising attractions devoted entirely to popcorn as well as fun popcorn trivia. After providing this rich foundation of popcorn knowledge, Podojil goes on to describe practical applications for the classroom by including detailed lessons and activities for a variety of subjects and age groups. Finally, this unique popcorn guide reveals various recipes for not only the familiar varieties of candied popcorn or savory flavorings, but several unexpected culinary treats as well, such as “Popcorn Soup” and “Popcorn Diner Meatloaf.” This multifaceted popcorn guide is useful for not only popcorn aficionados, but parents, educators, and home cooks alike. Intuitively laid out, this volume provides a wealth of knowledge on the history, science, economics, and culture surrounding this popular treat. And perhaps best of all, popcorns lovers will be happy to find over eighty easy-to-follow, diverse recipes that are sure to please the most discerning popcorn fan.

Maisie Ferris and her parents are interested in new ideas and the world beyond their small town of Galesburg, Illinois. When a visiting journalist from England tells Maisie he has never heard of popcorn, Maisie and her father come up with the wild idea of growing popcorn and selling it overseas. Their plan is a success, and Maisie's dreams of selling popcorn in England and meeting Queen Victoria come true.

Popcorn is the great American munchie, and it deserves the creative gourmet treatment to rescue it from the pre-packaged microwave chemistry experiments available at every grocery store. Popcorn offers up nearly 70 tantalizing recipes-both savory and sweet-to ensure that popcorn is never boring again. Try tart and piquant Lemon-Pepper Popcorn or Classic Barbecue, or even Gorgonzola and Green Onion for something completely different. On the sweet side, the offerings include Hawaiian Luau (featuring coconut and white chocolate), Popcorn S'mores, and Bananas Foster (the popcorn version). Patrick Evans-Hylton also shows how to use popcorn as an ingredient in main course dishes such as Popcorn Shrimp and Fish Fry with Seasoned Popcorn which use popped popcorn as a coating ingredient. And the Chesapeake Crab Cakes are stunningly delicious!