Popcorn Maker - Variants

Variants

Specialised popcorn pots have been marketed under various brand names, including Whirley Pop, Theater II and Sweet & Easy; all of them are basically a pot that has an integrated stirring blade operated by turning a crank. This is to prevent burning of the kernels on the bottom.

In 1978 Presto introduced the Popcorn Pumper, a popper for consumer use in the home, which used hot air blown up through the kernels. By cooking without oil, it reduced the calories and fat in the finished product. It was also faster and easier than pan-fry popping.

Home popcorn makers are also available which consist of a heated circular tray with a powered stirring arm, into which corn and oil can be placed, with a dome-shaped cover which often doubles as a serving bowl.

In the mid-1970s Pillsbury made microwave popcorn for sale in vending machines (and later to wide distribution in supermarkets, as microwave oven sales increased), thus reducing the need for a separate appliance in some homes; however up to 60% of the calories of this type of popcorn are derived from fat (lower fat versions are available). Many people today choose to microwave popcorn using their own bags. Popcorn can be placed in any paper bag, which is then folded and put in a microwave for several minutes depending on the wattage power of the microwave.