If you’re a fan of popcorn, then you owe it to yourself to check out list best popcorn kernels America’s Test Kitchen. Using their rigorous testing process, they’ve narrowed down the options to just six brands that will give you the perfect pop every time. Read on to find out which ones made the cut!
Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Popcorn Kernels America’s Test Kitchen to buy
What is a Popcorn Kernels?
A popcorn kernel is the seed of a corn plant. When heated, the moisture inside the kernel turns to steam and causes the kernel to burst open. The fluffy pieces that come out are called popcorn. Popcorn kernels can be eaten plain or added to other foods like salads or trail mix. They are also used in recipes like popcorn balls or chowder.
What are the different types of popcorn kernels?
There are three main types of popcorn kernels: white, yellow, and black. White popcorn is the most common type. It has a mild flavor and a light texture. Yellow popcorn has a slightly stronger flavor and is a bit harder than white popcorn. Black popcorn is the most flavorful of all the types. It is also the crunchiest and has a chewy texture.
Which type of popcorn kernel is your favorite?
List Reviews of Best Popcorn Kernels America’s Test Kitchen
Top 1 – Amish Country Mushroom Popcorn Kernels
Earning our top spot is the old-fashioned kernels from Amish Country. These delicious and hearty kernels are your go-to for mouthwatering homemade popcorn.
This 6-pound mushroom popping corn kernel comes in an airtight container for easy and reliable storage. The brand’s name, Amish Country, gives you an idea of where these kernels are cultivated and harvested.
These popcorn kernels are low on calories while being healthy and delicious. This best popcorn kernels America’s Test Kitchen is gluten-free and an excellent non-GMO solution. What’s more, this manufacturer offers plenty of options – varieties, sizes, and shapes – to pick from for a perfect snack.
For picky eaters, you’d be glad that the Amish Country Mushroom Popcorn Kernels are peanut and tree nut free – so you don’t have to worry about allergic reactions.
On top of that, this product is supplied with a recipe eBook offering up to 15 inspirational popcorn recipes to get you started with different flavors. Try this mushroom popping corn kernel with other toppings and spices for a gourmet result.
Pros:
- It comes with a recipe ebook
- Traditional style
- Mushroom popping corn kernels
- It does not contain peanuts and tree nut
Cons:
- It’s a tad more challenging to pop than other models
- Poor quality control as regular kernels are sometimes mixed with the mushroom model
Top 2 – Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels
If you’re anything like me, a big fan of yellow popcorns, then the quality of Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels would wow you. This company has been known for its top-quality yellow popcorn kernels.
These 5-pound popping corn kernels come in a 12 oz container with a large opening to allow scoop out a sufficient amount of popcorn for a quick fix. The container comes with an airtight lid to enable you to keep the kernels fresh for a more extended period. Also, it comes with a handle offering a good grip and safe life and transport.
One of the perks of this product is its various methods of preparation. These popcorn are easy to pop with your microwave, electric popper, air popper, or on the stovetop. Even better, they do not require you to use lots of oil. Plus, the container has an easy-to-follow measurement table that indicates the amount of oil needed to pop a specific amount of kernels perfectly.
In addition, this snack will not only leave your taste buds dancing but support healthy snacking, thanks to its high fiber content and 100% whole grain. The Orville Redenbacher’s Gourmet Popcorn Kernels are gluten-free, organic, and non-GMO to ensure they are safe for consumption.
Even better, the kernels do not come with seasoning or oil to allow you to experiment with your preferred oil and flavors for a tastier and healthier option.
Pros:
- Top-quality yellow popcorns kernels
- Wide opening airtight lid for safe storage
- 100% whole grain, organic, gluten-free and non-GMO
- No seasoning or oil added for incredible flexibility
- Easy-grip handle for comfortable lift
Cons:
- For more accurate measurement, it’s best to use a measuring cup instead
Top 3 – Great Northern Popcorn Premium 24 Pk- 8 Ounce Popcorn Portion
When it comes to Great Northern Popcorn, it’s hard to miss its brilliant packaging. These kernels come premeasured, which takes out guesswork or the need for a measuring cup. Each packet contains 8 ounces of popping corn.
Furthermore, it sports a tri-pack system that includes separate compartments for seasoning and oil. Again, this eliminates racking your brain on how much seasoning or oil to add to your popcorn for the gourmet snack.
Even better, you can skip the included seasoning and oil if you prefer to experiment with your seasoning and oil. In addition to their incredible flexibility, these packets are a breeze to store and carry instead of hauling the cumbersome bag of popcorn kernels.
That’s not all: each packet carries comprehensive simple-to-follow instructions on the back to guide you on various methods of using these kernels for a healthier and tastier snack. Also, you can make delicious popcorn using your stovetop, air popper, electric popper, or commercial popper.
Enough about the brilliant packaging; these kernels are top quality and make snacks comparable to ones we enjoy at movie theaters and baseball stadiums. This manufacturer uses fine diacetyl-free seasoned salt and buttery-flavored oil to ensure these popcorn kernels deliver excellent results.
Pros:
- Movie-theater quality popcorns
- Smart packaging to get rid of any guesswork
- Gluten-free and non-GMO popcorns
- Detailed nutritional facts on the packets
- Suitable with any preparation methods, including stovetops
Cons:
- No option for just kernels – without the oil and salt
Top 4 – Snappy White Popcorn
This perennial debate, yellow or white popcorns – which is better, usually boils down to preference. So, if you love those small white popcorn kernels, you won’t be disappointed with the quality of Snappy White Popcorn.
This perfect jar of white popcorn kernel is made with avid fans in mind. Also, it’s a 4-pound jar that solves the hassle of cutting plenty of popcorn packets to make a snack for your family or a couple of friends.
Unlike Great Northern Popcorn, the kernels are not supplied with oils and seasoning to allow users to customize to taste. Another exciting thing is that the jar comes with a fun recipe to make sumptuous cinnamon-flavored homemade popcorn for a more memorable moment with family and friends.
Pros:
- Airtight jar for safe storage
- Massive 4-pound jar of popcorns to save effort and time
- It comes with a fun recipe
- Non-GMO, high fiber, and low-fat popcorn kernels
Cons:
- No form of premeasurement
Top 5 – Bob’s Red Mill Whole White Popcorn Kernel
If you love the Great Northern Popcorn but hate to be forced to purchase the seasoning and oil included, here’s a perfect option – Bob’s Red Mill Whole White Popcorn Kernel.
It’s rich in fiber to ensure it’s a healthy snack for your family. This best popcorn kernels America’s Test Kitchen comes in packets, as well, to allow you to make gourmet popcorn with fewer calculations. Also, you don’t have to deal with properly storing the rest for later use since they are still contained in the pouches.
Best of all, these kernels can be used in the microwave, air popper, or on the stove.
Pros:
- Ideal for vegetarians
- Natural and organic ingredients
- Hassle-free to pop
- It does not come with any seasoning
Cons:
- On the pricey side
Factors when buying the Best Popcorn Kernels America’s Test Kitchen
1. Size
When it comes to choosing the best popcorn kernels, size matters. You want to find kernels that are big enough to pop but not so big that they will be difficult to eat. The best way to determine the size of a kernel is to look at its diameter. Kernels with a diameter of 6 millimeters or more are the best choice.
2. Type
There are three main types of popcorn kernels: white, yellow, and black. Each type has a different flavor and texture. White popcorn is the most common type. It has a mild flavor and a light texture. Yellow popcorn has a slightly stronger flavor and is a bit harder than white popcorn. Black popcorn is the most flavorful of all the types. It is also the crunchiest and has a chewy texture.
Which type of popcorn kernel do you prefer?
3. Brand
Not all brands of popcorn kernels are created equal. Some brands are better than others when it comes to popping quality and taste. Do some research and find out which brand offers the best-quality kernels.
4. Price
Kernels can range in price from a few cents to a few dollars per bag. It is important to find a good value without sacrificing quality. Look for brands that offer high-quality kernels at a fair price.
5. Packaging
The packaging of the popcorn kernels is also important. You want to find a brand that offers sturdy packaging that will not burst open during shipping or storage.
6. Nutrition Facts
One final factor to consider when choosing popcorn kernels is the nutritional content. Kernels with added salt, butter, or other flavors may not be as healthy as plain kernels. Make sure to read the nutrition facts label before buying any popcorn kernels.
7. Taste
Finally, taste is obviously an important factor when choosing popcorn kernels. Some people prefer a mild flavor while others crave a more robust flavor. Experiment with different types of kernels to find the one that best suits your taste buds.
What are some of the benefits of Popcorn Kernels?
1. They are a healthy snack choice.
Popcorn kernels are a low-calorie snack that is packed with nutrients. They contain vitamins A, B, and C, as well as minerals like magnesium and potassium.
2. They are a good source of fiber.
Each cup of popcorn kernels contains 3 grams of fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help reduce the risk of diseases like cancer and heart disease.
3. They are low in carbohydrates.
One cup of popcorn kernels contains only 10 grams of carbohydrates, which is 5% of the daily recommended amount. This makes them a good choice for people who are watching their carbohydrate intake.
4. They are gluten-free.
Popcorn kernels are gluten-free, making them a good choice for people who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease.
5. They are a great source of protein.
Each cup of popcorn kernels contains 6 grams of protein, which is 12% of the daily recommended amount. Protein is important for muscle development and healthy hair and skin.
6. They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Popcorn kernels are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. They can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
7. They are easy to store and transport.
Popcorn kernels come in a resealable bag that is easy to store and transport. This makes them a great snack for on-the-go.
8. They are a fun and festive addition to any party.
Popcorn kernels can be popped in a variety of flavors to create a festive party snack. Try popping some cinnamon or pumpkin spice kernels for a fun seasonal treat.
Method for Making Popcorn at home:
1. Start by heating up some oil in a large pot or skillet. You can use any type of oil, but we recommend using coconut oil, which has a high smoke point and adds a delicious flavor to the popcorn.
2. Add the popcorn kernels to the pot and cover with a lid.
3. Cook the kernels over medium-high heat until they start to pop. Be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.
4. Once the popping slows down, remove from heat and pour into a bowl.
5. Salt to taste and enjoy!
Popcorn Kernels Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the best size for a popcorn kernel?
A: Kernels with a diameter of 6 millimeters or more are the best choice.
Q: What is the difference between white, yellow, and black popcorn kernels?
A: White popcorn has a mild flavor and a light texture. Yellow popcorn has a slightly stronger flavor and is a bit harder than white popcorn. Black popcorn is the most flavorful of all the types. It is also the crunchiest and has a chewy texture.
Q: What brand of popcorn kernels is the best?
A: Not all brands of popcorn kernels are created equal. Some brands are better than others when it comes to popping quality and taste. Do some research and find out which brand offers the best-quality kernels.
Q: How much do popcorn kernels cost?
A: Kernels can range in price from a few cents to a few dollars per bag.
Q: What is the best way to store popcorn kernels?
A: Kernels should be stored in a cool, dry place. They should not be stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Q: What is the nutritional content of popcorn kernels?
A: Kernels with added salt, butter, or other flavors may not be as healthy as plain kernels. Make sure to read the nutrition facts label before buying any popcorn kernels.
Q: What is the difference in taste between white, yellow, and black popcorn kernels?
A: Taste is obviously an important factor when choosing popcorn kernels. Some people prefer a mild flavor while others crave a more robust flavor. Experiment with different types of kernels to find the one that best suits your taste buds.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the best popcorn kernels, America’s Test Kitchen has you covered. They tested nine different brands of popping corn and found that three were the best. The winners are Bob’s Red Mill, Snappy, and Amish. All three popped up fluffy and with a nice crust. If you want to make sure your popcorn is always delicious, buy one of these three brands.
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