Definition of

Popcorn

The first step we are going to take to know the meaning of the term popcorn is to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we have to emphasize that it derives from Latin. Exactly it is the result of the sum of two lexical components of said language: the noun “palumbes” and the diminutive suffix “-ita”.

Popcorn is popcorn . It is a snack that is usually consumed in movie theaters, parks, beaches and other places.

PopcornWhen a kernel of corn is roasted and opens similar to a flower, it is called a rosette. Popcorn is popped rosettes that, as a result of this action, have a spongy texture that is pleasant to the palate.

To prepare popcorn, which depending on the region is given names such as pochoclo , pororó , pipoca or popcorn , pisingallo corn is usually used, although other varieties can be used. The grains should be placed in a pot with vegetable oil; Then they must be heated until they explode .

It is important that the pot has a lid, since the grains “jump out” when they burst. The sound of the corn hitting the walls and the lid of the container indicates that the process is underway.

The explosion is due to the expansion of the grain content. The high temperatures cause the interior moisture to turn into vapor and press the pericarp until it bursts, causing the contents of the core to reach the outside.

Popcorn can be eaten sweet or salty . In the first case, caramel (melted sugar ) is used, while in the second option, butter (butter) and salt are added.

It is interesting to know that the origin of popcorn can be found thousands of years ago. Thus, for example, some of the oldest remains of this food have been dated in Mexico back to the year 3,600 BC.

Precisely throughout history these have not only been used as food but also as an element to make all kinds of objects. Specifically, it is known that the Mayans who lived in the Yucatan Peninsula used them to carry out different types of rituals.

On the other hand, when Christopher Columbus conquered America he discovered that the natives, for example, used the aforementioned popcorn to make clothing, such as bras, and even to make accessories such as hats. And all those objects were then sold to sailors.

However, we cannot forget that there is also so-called popcorn chicken, which can be had in many restaurants, mainly fast food. These are small pieces of chicken breast that are floured and fried. They have an exquisite flavor thanks to spices such as pepper, garlic, turmeric and even the well-known paprika, which is a type of paprika with a certain spicy touch.

It is important to mention that, in several countries, the idea of ​​palomita is also used in soccer to refer to the header that a player performs by jumping and stretching in the air . A popcorn goal, therefore, is achieved with a header of this type.