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Popcorn lovers can all agree that there is nothing quite like the crunch, taste, and smell of perfectly popped popcorn. Traditional popcorn and kettle corn are infamous for plenty of special occasions and laidback evenings. But what is the difference between popcorn and kettle corn?
Both traditional popcorn and kettle corn are made from the same corn variants which burst open when exposed to heat. The main difference concerns the preparation method and flavoring, as kettle corn has specific cooking and topping approaches while traditional popcorn can be made in numerous ways.
There has been plenty of debate concerning whether regular popcorn or kettle corn is better. Some people believe that they are pretty much the same, but that could not be further from the truth. Join us as we discuss how these two incredibly iconic snacks differ and what makes each variant so unique.
Technically, What Are Popcorn And Kettle Corn?
Popcorn is made from a specific corn variety, which can combust and puff up when exposed to high temperatures. Most popcorn is made from snowflake-shaped variants, as it helps trap butter and seasoning. The process of the corn kernels bursting is what creates the beloved snack that we have adored for ages.
Kettle corn is made from the same variants of corn as traditional popcorn, but it is prepared differently from traditional popcorn. Most kettle corn products are made from mushroom-shaped kernels, as it creates a sweet outer shell when combined with sugar.
Some popcorn products may use mushroom-shaped kernels, such as caramel popcorn, but it is far more common with kettle corn.
Popcorn is quite easy to get your hands on as it is sold at most stores. Fresh, kettle corn, however, is not as easy to find, as it is labor-intensive, and not all stores sell it.
They are frequently pre-made and are often sold at fairs and carnivals or from specific kettle corn manufacturers. Some shops may even sell packaged kettle corn variants for buyers to make at home.
What Are The Ingredients Of Popcorn And Kettle Corn?
Popcorn is traditionally buttered and salted but many other flavors are available, ranging from sour, salty, spicy, and everywhere in between. The neutral taste of traditional popcorn acts as a perfectly muted base for various flavor combinations. Oil and fats are used for many classic popcorn treats but they can also be made without.
Kettle corn needs oil, salt, and sweetness to get the flavor and texture exactly right. It is flavored with sugar and a touch of salt for a harmonious salty yet sweet taste.
The oil that is used for kettle corn generally elevates the sweet notes, as it draws the sugar to each popped corn to create a distinct crunchy outer shell.
How Are Popcorn And Kettle Corn Prepared?
Popcorn only requires a cooking container spacious enough for the kernels to burst freely. Pots are most common, but you can use other cooking equipment if it heats to a high enough temperature to make kernels burst.
Manufacturers who make popcorn in bulk and people seeking healthier options often use hot air popper appliances, which utilize steam to heat the kernels.
Kettle corn has a specific way that it is made and it requires a cast-iron kettle (hence the name). It can also be made in a Dutch oven in some cases.
Additionally, you will need a solid stirring tool for the cooking process. Using these tools is an iconic aspect of making kettle corn.
What Are The Cooking Differences?
Traditional popcorn requires very little to achieve a wholesome and delectable snack, as it can be made with minimal effort. Classic popcorn can be made in many ways, including air-popping or popping in oil over the stovetop. Many popcorn variants only require a microwave.
Kettle corn needs sugar to be added during cooking and must be constantly stirred throughout the process, as it can burn quite quickly if left unattended.
This quick-burning quality is due to the added sugar overheating. The cooking process typically makes kettle corn products far more labor-intensive as well as less popular and profitable for stores to sell.
What Are The Flavor Differences?
Popcorn is usually well-known for having a savory taste with various flavor profiles. Some of the most popular flavors include classics like salt and butter, or more modernized flavors like cheese, sour cream, onion, and even spicier variants like chili or paprika.
Kettle corn is predominantly sweet with a slight hint of saltiness to balance out the flavors. There is not much variation in taste, although some kettle corn manufacturers may offer a wider flavor selection. Still, kettle corn has a distinctive sweet taste irrespective of additional toppings added after the cooking process.
What Are The Nutritional Differences?
Traditional popcorn is often air-popped, which can be significantly healthier, but most classic popcorn treats are loaded with salts, fats, and artificial flavorings. Many methods involve popping the kernels in oil, which is similar to the kettle corn preparation method.
Both traditional popcorn products and kettle corn are relatively low in calories and hold similar nutritional value since they are made from the same corn species. Popcorn products contain a decent amount of fiber, antioxidants, folate, niacin, riboflavin, and vitamins B6, A, E, and K.
The main determining factor in which variant is healthier concerns the toppings since kettle corn is generally higher in sugar, while classic popcorn is higher in sodium and saturated fats.
Kettle corn may hold more sugar and oil, but classic popcorn snacks often hold similar calories in the form of butter and flavorings.
Traditional popcorn that is air-popped and free from overloaded salt and fat will be the better option concerning health and caloric intake. Alternatively, try making classic popcorn yourself with healthier oils like canola, corn, sunflower, coconut, or olive oil, and hold back on added toppings for a guilt-free snack.
However, kettle corn is undeniably unique in flavor and texture and will not do much harm when enjoyed in moderation.
While it may be slightly confusing to distinguish between the two, kettle corn is a type of popcorn that is prepared in a specific way, while popcorn offers far more leniency. Either way, both snacks are incredibly popular and well-loved in countless households worldwide.
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