POP Corn!

Have you ever worked in a traditional office? How about a large company? I have worked in PLENTY! As a graphic artist, I did freelance in big offices, small offices, from home... you name it. I was also full time here and there over the years at a couple different places.

One thing that is a given at any large office at LEAST once a day (usually early afternoon) is the smell of popcorn! That lovely microwave kind that burns half the time because someone didn't read the directions or forgot about it. This smell permeates the office and either makes you hungry or sickens you depending on how often you are stuck smelling it. And no matter how large the office, you can smell the lingering odors in every corner for hours. Smaller offices (under 10 people) can sometimes have a little character or feel a bit homey especially in the art field and aren't subject to this ritual as often as the large ones.

So if you DO work in a big office... If you do encounter this afternoon ritual... If you find you are nodding your head as you read... HOW can you buy that same faux butter tasting popcorn for your home movie nights? It is not that hard!

The funny thing is I have been cooking for years and years... long before I met my husband. But I was buying that presto pop crap (I mean corn)! That is until I started dating my husband. He didn't have a microwave. And when he suggested popcorn one evening I said, "How are we going to make it?" He gave me the oddest look and pulled out a large pan and some kernels and oil. Oh yeah.... I had forgotten! So I started doing it the good old fashioned way like when I was a kid. And let me tell you, it is a WORLD of difference! So much better!

And so easy! Just add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Add a layer of kernels. Wait for a moment or two and cover with a lid.

Give it a little shake now and then and listen to the sound of real popcorn popping! It is a fun sound. Melt some REAL butter. You can use a microwave for this if you want. Why not. THAT doesn't alter the taste. Sprinkle on a dash of salt and VOILA!

Popcorn!!!! The really really good kind with just the right amount of crunch, butter and salt. If you haven't had it in a while, you WILL taste the difference. And smell the difference too!

Want to kick it up a notch? Add a few dashes of Tabasco or your favorite hot sauce to the melted butter. Or even a put in a little squeeze of lime. Go easy. A little goes a long way here. And too much may make your popcorn soggy.

Don't bring the office home with you! Let me know how your movie night is with the real stuff.

POP CORN!!!!