Bring Back the Kettle Popcorn Maker!

The good news is that, actually, the kettle popcorn maker is back - and back in style for that matter. They use to be outdated, because it was so much more convenient to use the modern technology available and microwave popcorn; but the kettle popcorn maker is making its come-back in a very nice way - and this popcorn maker is undoubtedly here to stay.

There's really a tradition that goes with it, and history will tell us why. Before the commercial popcorn poppers or makers came into existence, corn was traditionally popped in a kettle or basket. These kettles were simple devices that blacksmiths made all the time - there really wasn't anything special about it. It was an iron mesh with a long handle, not so different from the "nets" or meshes we see on deep-fryers nowadays. The iron was later replaced with tin or copper.

Still, why would we care about tradition if modern life brings us equal or better quality? Well, you see, that is debatable. With all the health concerns out there, many opt to use hot air popcorn poppers, or other modern devices (the microwave, for example). It is indeed a fact that the old-fashioned way of making popcorn needs more attention from the one who's handling the kettle, because these kernels, once they pop, can fly quite high. Of course, they're also the open fire to think about, and children are better not left nearby.

The kettle popcorn maker is unique because it pops that corn in a way other methods don't. The open fire is not ideal if you want all the popcorn to pop in exactly the same way. However, it does have its charm. Can you imagine an
old-fashioned kettle popper on the barbeque, with the low-heat bed of coals just heating those kernels up? It's something special to consider, because when you see the process, it is very charming. There's nothing like popcorn made outdoors the old-fashioned way - the process is just as wonderful as the result.

And have you checked out the different patterns and styles they come in? Of course, the modern kettle popcorn makers do not require open fires anymore, and some of them have some unique designs that can fit into any kitchen décor. It's nostalgic and it's retro, but there are many who want the great kettle tradition to come back. You can have the pop of the kernel - and then the "ting" of the popped corn hitting that kettle. It's a sound I've missed, and it's wonderful to hear it. I'm not the only one who thinks that we should bring the kettle popcorn maker back.