Be it a game, a much-awaited get-together or even the match, what’s the one thing that brings the entire program together?
Popcorn, of course!
Can you even imagine the movies without a tub of lip-smacking popcorn? It almost feels illegal even to the imagination.
But how often can you go to the movies or the park? Sometimes you just want to enjoy the same appetizing snack at home in your shorts.
Lucky for you, modern technology has made that possible. With the availability of a plethora of unpopped kernels, this pleasant snack can be enjoyed any time you like.
Hold up, how do you know which are the best popcorn kernels? Do not fret yet, we have conducted thorough research and experimented with each ourselves to bring together this article that will help you clear out any confusion.
Read on to know more about our delicious experiment for some insight.
Top 10 Popcorn Kernels Reviews
1. Amish Country Popcorn
When you always have to maintain a strict gluten-free diet, it tends to get in the way of enjoying the simpler delights in life. Like, enjoying a delicious bowl of popcorn during family nights at home or even during the Saturday football matches.
You always have to be extra careful of the food you consume to make sure that your body doesn’t get into any shock. Amish Country Popcorn comes in a 6-pound bulk packaging that will keep your pantry stocked for a long time. This bag is nothing but a carefully constructed healthy snack you can enjoy without a sweat.
These popcorn kernels are genetically unmodified and have had no added help from any chemicals to be grown. You can microwave it, prepare it in a pressure cooker or a saucepan, the possibilities are endless. These non-toxic kernels are a healthy addition to snack time for all ages.
If you suffer from celiac disease, this is a good alternative for the health-conscious. Kids are especially benefitted from this because these health issues are usually repressed otherwise. It’s best if they are adjusted to a fruitful diet before things get out of hand, right?
- They are grown naturally and is gluten-free.
- They are completely preservative-free.
- Perfect to be popped in a popcorn machine as well.
- They are small and soft, devoid of hard kernels.
2. Arrowhead Mills Organic
There is one ruling factor why people are sometimes discouraged from investing in popping corn: not all kernels bloom into a beautiful popcorn.
The bowl feels heavy but there isn’t enough popcorn. Your hands hit the bottom of the bowl only to find a handful of unpopped kernels.
This has to be perhaps the most aggravating incident ever known to mankind (just kidding!). Other times, you might find yourself with a chipped tooth or two because the kernels are harder than rocks.
Arrowhead Mills Organic promises you exactly the opposite.
Each kernel is easy on the teeth and you are guaranteed to end up with full-blown popcorns every time. You can even add your own flair to flavors and get creative. You could try a cheesy seasoning, a generous drizzling of caramel or even the good ol’ traditional pump of salted butter.
Non-organically grown popcorn kernels tend to have vicious consequences on your health. People with severe cases of migraines can be greatly affected. However, these kernels are not only rich in fiber, but also reduce the risk of heart diseases and help you keep your weight in check.
- They come in 6 packets of 24 ounces, ready to be enjoyed and stored.
- The kernels are soft and are guaranteed to pop each time.
- Rich in fiber and is a healthy source of a low-fat snack.
- It is packed with vitamins, proteins, antioxidants, etc.
3. Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels
Orville Redenbacher embarked on a journey to produce a healthy snack for families to enjoy in unison back in 1952. He handpicked a group of farmers to join his quest and it has always been a family business with the sole purpose to serve loving families like his own.
This is exactly why Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels are a trustworthy brand. They deliver premium taste with maximum health benefits. No toxins, no preservatives – only the goodness of natural vitamins, proteins, and fibers that lift your body in every way.
If you like air-popped popcorn, these are the best popcorn kernels for air poppers you can get your hands on. The yellow kernels burst into an airy cloud-like structure, 46 times the size of white popcorn. Add butter to this and you will have yourself a bowl of happiness in every bite.
It comes in a convenient bottle container which allows you to govern how much of it you are using. This also facilitates easy storage since there is always the hassle of finding an appropriate jar of some sort. Most packets do not come with an integrated zip lock which makes this a far better alternative.
- Easy storage keeps it air-tight and available for use anytime.
- Yellow popcorn kernels are much fluffier than white popcorn kernels.
- It is completely free of any trans-fat that contributes to heart diseases.
- They can be popped in an air-popper, giving airy popcorns each time.
4. Paragon Yellow Popcorn
People have a soft spot for yellow popcorn.
Something about it feels more authentic. Perhaps the yellow tint is an instant reminiscence of those trips that are difficult to make with the busy schedules they have now.
Well, now every day could be a spontaneous hangout night with this bulk packaging of Paragon Yellow Popcorn. It comes in a 12.5-pound packaging that is bound to be always available for your impromptu nights. Granted that storage may be a hassle but that’s nothing that cannot be fixed.
If you own a theatre, these bulk packages are the best popcorn kernels for popcorn machine. The end result is always crunchy and pillow-like popcorn that is an absolute jam-packed party in the mouth. You can always pop them in stainless steel pans. You may end up with some unpopped kernels but that’s just because of the small surface area.
This whole grain popcorn is loaded with Vitamin A which has a multitude of health benefits like reducing night blindness, clearing up acne, maintaining healthy bones, etc. Who knew an all-time favorite snack could be so fruitful to health?
- The popcorn is crunchy and does not become chewy too quickly.
- It has 40% Vitamin A abundance that results in a range of health benefits.
- Very few kernels remain unpopped depending on the pan used.
- This is a great bulk package if you enjoy premium yellow popcorn.
5. Hoosier Hill Farm Gourmet White Popcorn
Some people prefer the rounder and more petite white popcorn.
They are great if you want to experiment with different flavors since they hold these more effectively compared to yellow popcorn. Or they are great themselves if you just like the plain salted popcorn goodness.
Hoosier Hill Farm Gourmet White Popcorn is absolutely perfect for people who like rounded popcorn. This 4-pound package comes in a plastic container, eliminating the storage issue that is always a bother. It comes sealed giving you that additional sense of safety that is missing in post packages these days.
Hoosier Hill Farm white popcorn packs a punch with enriched anthocyanin and cyanidin which are helpful in weight loss. These kernels have a sweet aftertaste and balances well with added flavors or salt sprinkling.
Most times, you’ll find that even after popping, the kernel remains tough. That is hardly the case for these popcorns.
If you are someone who doesn’t own any special pans or the time to go invest in one, these are the best popcorn kernels for microwave popper. Get yourself a good microwave popper, lay out a layer of popcorn at the bottom and watch the magic happen.
- The mildly sweet taste is a perfect balance between savory and sweet.
- Grown and manufactured in the USA, they’re a proud non-GMO franchise.
- All kernels become fully popped altogether when heated, leaving no waste.
- The economical packaging not only allows easy storage but also lasts long.
6. Great Northern Popcorn Company
If you remember enjoying morsels of popcorn in baseball matches, parks, or even movie theatres, Great Northern Popcorn Company is a wild trip down memory lane.
This popular brand has been a staple in major events or attractions which has had ensnared people over the years. Most times, people would buy more popcorn before leaving the theatre because they’d want to take the bit of deliciousness home. They just can’t get enough!
Well, now you can have homemade gourmet popcorn at home anytime you want. The amazing taste of the trips can now be popped at your convenience. The included butter-salt flavoring is just the right amount to make popcorn EXACTLY like the popcorn machine.
There is always the struggle of measuring out each ingredient down to the tee and one little mistake can throw off the entire taste of the popcorn.
The pre-made mixture can be cut off and squeezed out to be mixed all together. This cuts down half the time and cost of buying additional flavoring and measuring them out. However, that does not limit the possibilities of adding your own flair to it.
- This has been a crowd pleaser in events and locations for a long time.
- It is agreeably the closest thing to theatre popcorn that you can enjoy.
- It comes with its own seasoning that is easy to mix and prepare.
- The 24-pack can serve 2-4 people every 5 quarts per cycle.
7. Snappy Popcorn Yellow Kernels
Snappy Popcorn Yellow Kernels have been a favorite among households for years. They were one of the few pioneers who turned homegrown corn into popping corn. This brand is widely preferred, even over some of the ones mentioned in this article.
Grown without the help of any preservatives or toxins, these non-GMO kernels pop into fluffy snacks that are far larger than the size they came in. This is why these kernels seem to last longer, since a little goes a long way.
The huge shape also allows them to retain more seasoning so that you have a flavorful bite every time.
Although you’d be left behind with one or two unpopped kernels, people seem to have accepted this with an open mind. At times, the small surface area of the utensils causes this mishap or there are some stubborn kernels. However, this is instantly forgotten thanks to its incomparable taste.
Bonus feature includes the 4-pound reusable plastic container that is ergonomically designed for better handling. These kernels are ready to be popped in any type of pot – air popper, stainless steel pan, pressure cooker or even in a microwave.
- The kernels pop larger than most of its competitors.
- The reusable container is great for storing kernels in parts.
- They retain more flavors from added seasoning than smaller popcorns.
- Ready to be popped in any utensils or machines available.
8. Bob’s Red Mill Whole White Popcorn
This one is for all the health-conscious folks out there who are picky about their gluten-free food.
You can’t help it, with so many hidden ingredients in your favorite snacks, it gets tough to differentiate the good from the bad in order to stay fit and functioning well.
For those with dire celiac disease, Bob’s Red Mill Whole White Popcorn was initially manufactured with the idea of promoting more whole grains and gluten-free food items for people of all ages to enjoy. Their sole motto is to promote the goodness of whole grains for every meal of the day.
These kernels bloom into butterfly shapes and show no signs of hard kernels. There is no added salt to avoid too much sodium in your diet which could otherwise lead to damaging health risks. This allows you the freedom to add as much salt as you need completely in regards to your preference.
It comes in 4 packets of 27-ounce which is good as bulk packaging if you are someone who lives, breathes and sleeps popcorn. These tender kernels will definitely bring that pop in those bleak leisure times and keep you company.
- These kernels are packed with health benefits.
- Comes in 4 bulk packages that’ll last for a long period.
- These popcorns can be made in the microwave or a stovetop.
- They do not have any added salt that is damning to health.
9. Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels 12 oz
We’ve already highlighted everything you need to know about Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels.
However, the size of it can be mammoth at times. Like everything, these have an expiration date on them too.
Well, it doesn’t make sense to invest in a 30-ounce bulk container if you are not a popcorn aficionado and only like enjoying them on given days. You could opt for the smaller sized 12-ounce pack that is still considered to be a bulk pack that you can savor over time.
There are multiple size options because people can’t seem to get enough of these kernels. They taste just like the real deal.
Imagine this, you are the host of the annual football match and your guests are instantly hooked to the amazing spread you have laid out. And thanks to these delicious bowls of popcorn, you are a hit.
The handy container allows easy lifting and storage. You can pick it up off the ground with more ease, thanks to its well-designed handle. Be mindful of the fact that the container may be subject to accidental damage during shipping in which case you might have to look for alternative storage.
- The delicious kernels are available in a smaller package of 12 oz.
- The container has a handle that allows easy lifting.
- The container allows you to pour out a measured amount of kernels.
- They are compatible with a range of heating methods.
10. Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn
If you are a college student who doesn’t exactly know their way around the kitchen, or like their food instant like noodles for a time-efficient day, Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn should definitely be a part of your pantry.
Study-time snacks are now more delectable, thanks to this one. It’s extremely easy to cook.
Of course, you have your yellow kernels but what you’ll love is that the package comes with separate compartments, holding the salt and the oil needed to heat these up.
Just cut it open, dump everything together and shake the pan or saucer until all the kernels are well covered.
The added salt, however, is a little tricky. You don’t exactly have to dunk all of it. You can choose to add portion by portion to your liking. Some people prefer their popcorn extra salty while others don’t like any salt. Just keep in mind that too much sodium is not a good idea for your health.
It comes in a pack of 24 so you can pop out a pack anytime you want. Be it during exam preparation, during the college game or even when you just want to lay back and enjoy a quiet day in your home.
- Everything you need to prepare a bowl of popcorn comes in the pack.
- You get a 24-pack set which you can cut off and enjoy at any time.
- You can pop it in a microwave as well.
- The flavor is just like in the theatres but you can add your own taste.
How To Choose The Right Popcorn Kernels
People seem to believe, “It’s just popcorn! They’re all the same!” But you are far from right. There are varieties in terms of shape, flavor and even health benefits. If you want to choose the best popcorn kernels that are suited to your preference, there are some things you need to take into consideration.
Non-GMO
Most manufacturers use genetically modified organisms to boost the growth of their corns. However, this potentially compromises the purity of the kernels and most times leads us to ingest these harmful toxins in our body.
Make sure you opt for a non-GMO package. Check the labels and popcorn kernels reviews before making a purchasing decision.
Flavoring
Some packs come with included flavors, some come already flavored, while others give you the total liberty to innovate any way you want. You want popcorns that retain the flavors rather than sinking them at the bottom of the bowl.
If you use oil, additional flavors have more success in sticking to the body of each popcorn. This is different if you use air poppers. You’d have to drizzle over cooked popcorn and then mix well for even distribution.
White Or Yellow
White kernels are smaller compared to yellow ones. The yellow tint is what gives that rich buttery color. Yellow kernels are crispier than white kernels. Hence, if you prefer your popcorn crunchy, yellow popcorn is the way to go.
They also grow larger in size compared to white kernels. They explode almost 46 times larger compared to their initial state.
White kernels are more rounded and mushroom-like. If you feel adventurous you could have a mixture of both.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Get Crunchy Popcorn?
When you apply heat to the kernels, the stored moisture is released from the heart of the kernels. Condensation may settle in and make them soggy. Try using a lid with some sort of ventilation for the moisture to escape and you will have crunchy popcorns.
How To Store Popcorn Kernels?
Popcorn kernels stay fresh at low humidity. If the surrounding humidity is higher than 14%, the kernels may begin to absorb more moisture from the surrounding and begin rotting over time. Keeping them in an air-tight container is the right way to go.
What Is The Difference Between Mushroom Popcorn And Butterfly Popcorn?
Mushroom popcorns tend to be smaller in size and more rounded. This allows them to retain crazy flavors like cheese sauce or chocolate.
Butterfly popcorn, on the contrary, explodes wildly and are haphazardly mammoth in shape. They are unable to hold as much flavor as mushroom popcorns.
Final Words
Popcorn is probably the most popular snack to date. Can you imagine a better snack that not only helps pass time but is also healthy and a mouth pleaser? It’s like that one all-rounder friend who makes you feel good about yourself all the time.
Now that you know a few of the best kernels for popcorn out in the market, we’d suggest that you experiment with the various flavors and ingredients. Why not add some Chaat Masala or even Chile lemon flavoring to add some zest to your bites?
The possibilities are endless with popcorn. A handful of popcorn is enough to spread mounds of happiness without even trying too hard.
So go on, host that sleepover with your girls you’ve been eagerly waiting for so long or watch the match with your boys because popcorn is just another company to your pack.