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Zero Waste Low Waste Popcorn
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5 from 1 vote

How to Make Zero Waste Healthy Air-Popped Popcorn

Try this zero-waste, air-popped popcorn method of making popcorn at home! It's an easy, money-saving kitchen hack to add to your repertoire using a microwave and plastic-free bag. It's called air popping, as no oil or stovetop is required, and you can customize seasonings to your liking. 
Cook Time5 minutes
Course: snacks
Keyword: low waste popcorn, microwave, popcorn, sustainability, zero waste popcorn
Servings: 1 -2 servings
Author: Remy

Ingredients

  • 3-4 tablespoons popcorn kernels
  • reusable silicone sandwich bag or brown paper bag
  • neutral oil optional
  • seasoning recommendations optional
  • salt to taste
  • nutritional yeast
  • garlic salt
  • truffle salt
  • vegan butter flavoured coconut oil
  • any other spices of choice

Instructions

  • Add corn kernels to a reusable silicone bag or paper sandwich bag with the top folded down a few times until secure. If desired, add a touch of neutral oil and shake to coat.
  • Microwave for 2-3 minutes, time will vary by microwave. Listen for popping and once the popping starts to slow, stop the microwave. I found best results working at 75% microwave power.
  • Add seasoning to the bag and shake to coat. Enjoy!

Video

@veggiekins

Stop buying popcorn & make it lowwaste! Your wallet will thank you 😉 #zerowaste #veganrecipes #vegan #kitchenhacks #cookingtiktok #sustainability

♬ Butter - 방탄소년단 (BTS)

Notes

Can I Make Popcorn Oil-Free?

Yes, it's up to you whether or not you want to add a bit of oil to the popcorn. You can leave the oil out and enjoy a totally oil-free snack. Or add a bit of neutral oil like avocado for extra crispiness and flavor.

Is it Safe to Microwave Silicone?

Yes, silicone bags are microwave-safe. It's always best to check the manufacturer's recommendations, of course. I use these sandwich-size bags from Stasher. They stand up on their own, which makes microwave popcorn super easy.

Flavoring Ideas for Homemade Popcorn

Have fun adding your favorite seasonings to your fresh popcorn kernels. I personally love:
  • Nutritional yeast for cheesiness but keeping it vegan
  • Garlic salt
  • Truffle salt or oil
  • Butter-flavored coconut oil
  • Vegan melted butter
  • Hot pepper flakes or hot sauce
  • Date caramel
  • Chocolate sauce
The possibilities are endless, and you can go sweet, savory, spicy, or umami.

Storage Tips

Store leftover popcorn in an airtight container or bowl with a tight-fitting lid at room temperature for up to a week. Use it for movie night, or store it in individual bags for an on-the-go healthy snack.