Small Beginnings, Great Possibilities: Popcorn & The American Spirit

It’s America’s 250th birthday and everyone’s invited to the party! As you plan your celebratory menus, be sure to include a true American original— popcorn. July 4 crowd pleasers include: Red Hot Poppers, Popcorn S’mores, and Peanut Butter Popcorn Cups.

Did You Know?

Popcorn is one of the oldest and most beloved American foods. It’s been around for thousands of years, yet over time, it has remained a humble little kernel of goodness. Wholesome and whole grain, popcorn provides needed fiber to the diet. Popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, and for mere pennies per serving, it’s gentle on the wallet and the waistline. For some star-spangled snacking, try this recipe for Home Run Sugar Corn.

• Learn more about the history of popcorn here.
• See what makes popcorn pop here.
• Find out how popcorn gets from seed to snack here.
• Read interesting and corny facts about popcorn here.

National Trails Day (June 6) is an annual event hosted by the American Hiking Society as a “day of service for hometown trails and the people who love them.” It’s a great way to spend time with the folks you love getting fresh air and exercise, and doing good by helping clean trails. Take along whole grain popcorn for a rewarding energy treat.

Ingredients

• 5 cups popped popcorn
• 3 cups whole grain oat cereal
• 1/3 cup raisins
• 1/3 cup peanuts (or other nuts)
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
• 6 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoon light corn syrup

Directions

1. Stir together popcorn, cereal, raisins and nuts in large microwavable bowl; set aside.
2. Combine butter, brown sugar and corn syrup in small saucepan.
3. Heat until boiling; cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour over popcorn mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
5. Microwave 3-4 minutes, stirring and scraping bowl after each minute.

7. Break into pieces and store in airtight container.

Celebrate Your MVP With Father’s Day Treats from Savory to Sweet

Celebrating your Most Valuable Pop on Father’s Day is par for the course, so make it special with Popcorn Pepperoni Pizza Dippers, Spicy Korean BBQ, Double Chocolate Popcorn Balls, Bourbon Pecan Popcorn, Sweet Chili & Peanut Popcorn, Garlic & Herb Popcorn