Thứ Bảy, 3 tháng 11, 2018

Best Pancake Griddle Reviews 2018: Top 5+ Recommended

Pancakes, anyone?

I mean, who wouldn’t love a wonderful morning with the soothing aroma of coffee with its perfect partner— an enticing vision of stacked, steaming golden pancakes dripping in maple syrup, right?

Whether it be a quick Monday morning breakfast or a relaxed Sunday brunch, it is no doubt that pancakes are the most popular breakfast item across the world!

Pancakes are among the easiest food item you can make for breakfast, however, it can be quite a challenge to get the right size, shape and fluffy texture you always want— especially if you need to cook several pancakes in just a short amount of time.

I’ve got some good news for you, though!

This very problem can be prevented with the best pancake griddle that allows you to cook several pancakes at a time without overwhelming your skillet and forgetting the fun of flippin’ those pancakes.

What Exactly is a Griddle?

Because griddles usually come in various types, sizes, and shapes, it is quite difficult to understand what exactly this kitchen tool is. To make it simpler, a griddle:

  • Is a piece of cookware or kitchen appliance with a flat and large surface.
  • Is typically made of cast iron, aluminum, and steel and its surface is heated by wood, coal, gas or electricity
  • Has mostly non-stick surfaces

Griddles make cooking more efficient and easier and not only with pancakes.

Factors To Consider Before Buying a Pancake Griddle

Finding the best pancake griddle is more than just choosing the most popular model and hoping that it is the right one for you. There are certain elements you need to consider in order that you buy the right model for your needs. Here are some things you need to take into considerations when looking for a pancake griddle:

1. Shape

Most pancake griddles come in rectangular or square shapes, but some also have a circular shape. Rectangular and square-shaped griddles are ideal if you want to maximize the cooking surface you can work with. Additionally, rectangular griddles also allow you to cook other items other than pancakes, making it highly versatile.

2. Size

Another thing you need to consider is the size of your griddle. If you frequently entertain guests or has a large family to feed, then consider getting a griddle that is as large as enough room you can spare in your kitchen. This will allow you to cook more pancakes at the same time, getting the task done faster and ensuring that they are still hot and fresh when you serve them. If you live alone, then you can get a relatively small one for single servings.

3. Material

The most common griddle materials are stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron.

  • Stainless steel is durable and non-reactive, however, heat distribution can be a problem.
  • Aluminum is the most affordable and lightweight of the three choices. It also has a fair heat distribution, however, it is highly reactive to alkaline and acidic foods. And because it is soft, aluminum tends to scratch and warp easily.
  • Cast iron is the most durable of all. It has a natural non-stick coating, does not react with acidic foods, and distributes and retains heat really well. The only problem is that it is the heaviest among the three.

4. Non-Stick Pans

Usually, pancakes are not that thick, so they tend to stick to the cooking surface. If you want a healthy pancake recipe, then go for griddles with non-stick pans since they require less to no oil than regular pans. Plus you will never have to serve any misshapen and ugly pancakes with non-stick coating griddles.

5. Electric or Stove Top

Some griddles rely on electricity in order to heat while some are designed like pans that you need to place them on your stove top. Either style provides multiple sizes and high-quality options to choose from.

6. Handle

If you are eyeing a griddle that is used on a stove top, then you need to take a closer look on its handle. You would want to get a stovetop pancake griddle with handles that do not heat while cooking in order to prevent accidents or burning your hands. Also, get a griddle with good gripping handles in order to prevent slipping when trying to flip your pancakes.

7. Heat Settings

If you opt for an electric pancake griddle, then you need to consider the heat settings. The best electric pancake griddle allows you to adjust the temperature from high heat, medium to low heat or can provide you with particular temperature settings.

8. Versatility

If you think about cooking other foods such as bacon, eggs or even steaks, then you can look for a griddle that offers additional plates with grilling surfaces. With this, you can enjoy the versatility of the item without spending a lot.

9. Maintenance

Look for a pancake griddle that does not give you a hard time to clean. Pancakes are relatively easy to cook, so why cleaning up after the griddle should be hard? The best choices are griddles with non-stick surfaces or removable parts that make it relatively easy to clean. You should go for a pancake griddle that you can wipe clean without hassle.

10. Cost

Last but not the least, you should carefully consider how much are you willing to spend for a pancake griddle. Spending more usually gives you a higher-quality griddle that surely lasts longer. Expensive models can even come with a longer warranty or easier to clean. Expensive options usually refer to electronic ones while the cheapest choices are typically stovetop griddles.

The Top 5 Best Pancake Griddle 2018

*Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

#1: Lodge Round Cast Iron Griddle

Lodge Round Cast Iron Griddle

Via amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

The Lodge Round Cast Iron is a 10.5-inch, multi-functional griddle which works wonder for your all-time favorites! It is essential for big breakfasts, flipping flapjacks and pancakes, roasted vegetables, quesadillas, tortillas, and grilled sandwiches.

With a cast iron construction, you can use it on stovetop, campfires, as well as the oven and can be very tough and used for generations to come. It can slow-cook foods without scorching, plus it can retain and distribute heat very well, so you can even sear meat at a higher temperature.

Sporting a stylish black color, this round griddle looks great in most kitchen and doubles up as an excellent source of nutritional iron when cooking. It also provides a non-stick surface without any harmful fumes generated by heating chemically-treated nonstick cookware.

What We Like

  • Cast iron construction
  • Very tough
  • Stylish black color
  • Non-stick surface
  • Highly versatile
  • Even heating
  • Low maintenance

What We Don't Like

  • Get hot too fast
  • Pretty heavy
  • Prone to rusting

#2: Lodge Pro-Grid Grill + Griddle

 Lodge Pro-Grid Grill + Griddle

Via Amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

Another product from Lodge, this cookware can be used as a griddle or a grill. It provides great heat retention and distribution and can fit over 2 stovetop burners. Its easy grip handles allow you easily lift, flip or hang this cookware if not in used.

Featuring a slight slope, it provides a generous grease gutter for a mess-free cooking. It reversible feature means that you use the ridged grill side for grilling sausages, steaks and hamburgers and the smooth side for cooking pancakes, eggs, flapjacks, and sandwiches.

Whether you use it in a camp or kitchen, this iron cast cookware is virtually indestructible that could last for generations to come. Measuring 20 x 10.44 inches, you can cook enough food items for the family. It also comes pre-seasoned in order to prevent any food sticking on it, but you can still spray or coat it with vegetable oil.

Moreover, cleaning is relatively easy— just run on water and dishwashing soap, pat dry with a towel and you’re good to go!

What We Like

  • Grill + Griddle cookware
  • Large cooking surface
  • Easy to clean
  • Pre-seasoned
  • Has grease gutter
  • Sturdy handles

What We Don't Like

  • Food can still stick on the surface
  • Needs better handle design
  • Needs to be carefully washed

#3: Presto Cool Touch Electric Griddle

Presto Cool Touch Electric Griddle

Via amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

Presto offers an efficient square-shaped electric griddle that can hold more sandwiches, eggs, and pancakes than conventional rectangular griddles! It features a multi-function tray that can be flipped back in order to keep cooked food warm and flipped up to use as a spatter shield, swing forward for steaming and melting and completely removable to be used as a serving tray!

With a 14 x 15-inch cooking surface, you can cook batch-by-batch of food in no time! Non-stick coating ensures that you can easily clean the product and have a stick-free cooking. It also has a master control that allows you to control the temperature of the griddle for the desired cooking heat.

Sporting a cool-touch base on both sides and front, you do not have to worry about your hands getting burned. It also has a slide-out drip tray for a mess-free cooking and easy cleaning. This griddles can be submerged fully on the water and is dishwasher-safe— just remove the heat controls first.

What We Like

  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Slide-out drip tray
  • Cool touch base
  • Multi-function tray
  • Non-stick coating

What We Don't Like

  • Too small
  • Takes too long to heat

#4: Gotham Steel Square Griddle Pan

: Gotham Steel Square Griddle Pan

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

Make pancakes every morning in this beautiful orange griddle pan that you will surely love. With a non-stick coating, the Gotham Steel Square Griddle Pan will make sure that you can cook and flip pancakes and eggs without any hassle!

It comes in just the right size for cooking your favorite breakfast meals. It is PFOS-, PTFE-, and PFOA-free so you do not have to worry if it is safe for cooking. This griddle pan also offers easy cleaning, thanks to it being dishwasher safe, so you can just throw it in and not worry about a thing.

Its sturdy handles allow easy lifting and transport of the pan. However, you need to exercise caution since it does not have any rubberized handle so it can very hot when cooking.

What We Like

  • Non-stick
  • 100% safe for cooking
  • Vibrant color
  • Sturdy handle

What We Don't Like

  • Nonstick layer wears off
  • Handles can get hot when cooking
  • Not to be used in induction stovetops

#5: Good Cooking Emoji Smiley Face Pancake Griddle

Good Cooking Emoji Smiley Face Pancake Griddle

Via amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

Create smiling pancakes every morning that will surely brighten the day! This fun, emoji pancake pan makes it easy for you to cook presentable breakfast without any added efforts.

This pan features 7 different molds emblazoned with different funny emoji faces. It has a non-stick coating so that your food won’t stick on the surface and easily flip your pancakes if you can. It requires little to no oil when cooking and can provide you with 7 3-inch thick pancakes for your family.

After cooking, you can easily clean it off with water and wipe it with a soft cotton cloth. Its size does not take up to much space in your kitchen and is very easy to store on kitchen cabinets.

What We Like

  • Perfectly sized molds
  • Teflon non-stick surface
  • Can be used on electric or gas stove
  • 7 Fun, emoji molds

What We Don't Like

  • Flipping pancakes can be a bit difficult
  • The bottom is prone to scratching

The Basic Pancake Recipe

Once you have brought your own pancake griddle, making pancake is relatively easy! Although there are ready-made pancake recipes you can buy in stores, creating one for yourself is quite easy, plus you get to control the portion of seasonings and additives on your pancakes.

What you will need:

  • 1 ¼ cups of milk
  • Egg
  • 3 tablespoon of melted butter
  • 3 ½ teaspoons of baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour

Instructions

  • 1Take a large bowl.
  • 2Sift together the baking powder, white sugar, salt, an all-purpose flour.
  • 3After mixing, create a well in the middle of the mixture.
  • 4Add the milk, egg and melted butter.
  • 5​​​​Mix all ingredient until it has a smooth and consistent texture without any lumps.

How To Use Griddles For Pancakes?

For perfect pancakes every time, griddles are the best kitchen tool. Just pre-heat your griddle at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In case you do not have any temperature options, then just put in on medium heat. Usually, griddles heat up within a few minutes.

Pour the batter in a small circle, then slowly spread it to at least 3 or 4-inches thick. If you are cooking multiple pancakes, then place them at least 1.5 inches apart so that they do not spread into each other and form a clump.

Allow the pancakes to cook. If you see small bubbles on the batter, then it is time to flip the pancakes. You can use a spatula to flip the pancakes or try to be pro-like and do a throwing flip for fun.

After flipping, cook for another 2 minutes until you see a golden-brown color on all sides. Use a spatula to get the pancakes off the griddle. Top it with your favorite syrups, chocolates, fruits or ice cream or eat them together with eggs, bacon, and spinach.

Tips in Cleaning Pancake Griddles

After cooking, wait until your griddle has cooled down before cleaning. Use gentle soap when washing and never use harsh scorching pad since it can leave scratched on the griddle or peel off the non-stick coating.

Rinse the griddle with water. You can also just throw it on the dishwasher if it is dishwasher-safe and wait for it to finish.

After that use vegetable oil in order to re-season the griddle before you store it. Just use tissue with oil and wipe it on the cooking surface.

The Flipping Master

Now, among the 5 products mentioned above, the best of the best pancake griddle would be…Presto Cool Touch Electric Griddle!

Although a bit smaller than other pancake griddle, the Presto Cool Touch Electric Griddle offers a lot of features that the other griddles on the list don’t have.

Its multifunction tray is highly versatile and features a master control that allows you to control and manage the desired temperature when cooking. It also has a cool-touch base for burned-free cooking and slide-out drip tray for a mess-free cooking. Plus, this item is dishwasher safe or can be fully submerged in the water for easier cleaning.

But if you need a larger pancake griddle to cook a large batch of meals, then Lodge Pro-Grid Grill + Griddle will not disappoint!

Flippin’ it up!

With a pancake griddle by your side, cooking stacked golden-brown goodies dripping in golden syrup is much easier and full of fun! And griddles are not just for pancakes, you can cook a whole lot of other food items that will complete your meal! 

So, what are you waiting for? Get the best pancake griddle out there and start making you stack of favorite hotcakes!

Do you have any question? Suggestions? Feel free to voice out your mind by hitting the comment section below!

Until then, happy pancake flippin’!

The post Best Pancake Griddle Reviews 2018: Top 5+ Recommended appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Thứ Năm, 1 tháng 11, 2018

Top 8 Foods to Strengthen Teeth

Eating right foods ensure the better oral health. There is an old adage, "you are what you eat". But we failed to maintain the required diet for our oral health. Cleaning teeth 2 times a day is not enough job for healthy teeth, rather you should have a strong diet for a healthy smile.

A study conducted in King's London Dental Institute has shown that more than 1,000 men and women between the ages of 18 to 30 have a direct connection between diet and tooth decay. The study shows that eating high acid fruits and their juices can harm your teeth.

Foods with nutrients strengthen your teeth and improve dental health. Foods those strengthen your teeth health are actually healthy and delicious. Your teeth thank you when you build a habit of eating foods those are nutritious for the teeth.

#1. Avocado

Avocados are so popular that you find them in every restaurant and even you see a lot of restaurants opened that only serve different kinds of delicious avocado dishes. The high potassium levels of avocado lead to reduce the risk of tooth decay. Potassium works effectively to strengthen and prevent teeth and bones from breaking down. The lack of potassium is the prime reason for tooth decay in some people, so you should include servings of avocado into your diet.

Top 10 remarkable Health benefits of Avocado

Avocado flesh rich in prebiotic fiber which feeds probiotic bacteria in your oral and gut flora which promotes healthy digestion. Avocado contains a high level of fatty acids that absorb the fat-soluble vitamin E and K1. On top of that avocado contains folate, vitamin C, potassium, vitamin B5 and vitamin B6. Be an avocado dieter, enjoy life; forget the doctor!

#2. Kefir

Kefir originated in the Middle East, is a delicious fermented milk drink with the tangy taste. It's widely known for good health and a booster diet for your oral health.

Moreover, it's a powerhouse of fatty acid with fat-soluble vitamin A, D, and K2. This nutrients mix is crucial for healthy teeth. Kefir is a versatile microbial makeup containing lactic acid and yeasts which are great for improved digestion. The gut microbiota controls your immune system and beneficial against your bleeding gums. Streptococcus mutans mostly found in the human oral cavity and the main culprit of tooth decay.

Kefir is packed with friendly lactobacillus bacteria which hinder the tooth decay-causing bacteria. These bacteria known as strep mutans for having ability of obstructing tooth decay.

#3. Asparagus

Do you know asparagus packed with healthy dietary fiber with a good source of inulin? A prebiotic fiber like inulin acts as a fertilizer for the good bacteria that helps to digest probiotics in your gut. We have already discussed the beneficial role of probiotics for your gut and oral health. Probiotics are the good bacteria that keep the healthy balance of digestion in your gut and it has a close encounter with dental health. The good number of stomach bacteria influence your bodily health condition and the digestive system.

Don't forget to include servings of asparagus into your daily diet.  A healthy stomach is full with the healthy gut flora and it's crucial for your dental health.

#4. Spinach

Spinach reminds me E. C. Segar's the nostalgic cartoon series Popeye the Sailor. Yeah! Popey was right- spinach is power booster! This leafy green vegetable originated in Persia, but now it's mostly found in the US and China. This edible green vegetable loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Spinach is packed with iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and folic acid and considered to be the health booster and dental health. Having smoothies or pasta sauces mixed with spinach serve extra fiber in your diet. What's more, it's antioxidant property clean harmful oxidizing substances from your body and improves teeth and gums health.

#5. Sauerkraut

Some estimates that for about 4,000+ years ago sauerkraut comes from NE China. To make sauerkraut pickled cabbage, salt, sugar, vinegar, and shredded cabbage are used and fermented by various lactic acid bacteria for 4-6 weeks. Surkraut pickled cabbage is packed with live probiotics which potentially promote healthy digestion. These good microbiotas keep your dental and gut health balanced and healthy. Live probiotics inside sauerkraut develop your teeth health.

Studies have shown that lactic acid release bacteria which hinder harmful bugs in your stomach. This property prevents tooth decay, gum disease and keep the balance of oral microbiome. You can use white or red cabbage to prepare sauerkraut for your family's meals with tangy flavor.

#6. Garlic

Garlic is widely used herb all over the world known to be good for the heart, blood system and teeth to boot. Garlic not only adds an appetizing flavor to food but also healthy for your dental health. It's rich in antibacterial properties. Garlic packed with allicin chemical properties which causes the bad 'garlic breath'. Garlic is antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial for having allicin chemical property that controls oral flora imbalance by fighting against bad bacteria.

Top 9 Unbelievable Health Benefits of Garlic

These harmful bacteria increase dental diseases such as cavities and gum disease. Garlic contains prebiotic fiber to boost your gut health. We all should know - the precondition of healthy teeth and gums are the healthy gut.

Chicken drumsticks

Do you know chicken drums, thighs, and wings are rich in collagen? Chicken breasst is also a great source of collagen. You can make delicious grilled chicken panini recipe using best panini press in the market. Collagen plays a crucial role in your gum health. When you loss collagen ligament to your teeth then you suffer from gum disease. You can get collagen from chicken bone broth. It contains many nutrients and collagen. All of these nutrients are good for your dental health.

Butter

You might think of butter is not as healthy, it is a great source of nutrients and rich in healthy properties for your teeth. People avoid butter to avoid extra weight. Actually, the saturated fat in butter is not going to make you suffer from obesity. Eating butter doesn't spike normal blood sugar. It contains valuable vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin K2. These nutrient properties are beneficial for your dental health diet.

Asparagus, chicken legs and garlic are a great combo, which is good for your teeth. Mix, match and enjoy!

So too chicken and apple panini. Make a healthy meal for your family using the best panini press in the market. Have questions in mind regarding oral health? Express your curious mind. Feel free to leave your questions below.

The post Top 8 Foods to Strengthen Teeth appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Top 5 Healthiest Foods for Breakfast

Doctor's are supposed to be the best example of how to live your life. As breakfast is the crucial meal of the day, it's clear that doctors start their morning off with the most nutritious diets. 

While talking about his daily breakfast, Dr. Eduardo Grunvald, program director, UC San Diego Weight Management Program says -- "Coffee with eggs or oatmeal." 

Dr. Malcolm Thaler, the provider at One Medical says -- "A glass of cranberry juice, a ginger tea, a yogurt with fruit, and a small bowl of oatmeal. Sounds healthy, yes? Well, it's all downhill from there!" 

Thankfully, you have enough options. Take a look at our favorite and healthiest foods for your breakfast, along with some enticing information and tips.

Eggs

Eggs in the breakfastr ensure your morning protein intake which is good for dieters. Egg at breakfast helps you to maintain blood sugar and insulin levels. A study shows that who ate eggs at breakfast felt much fuller and longer. It helps to consume less calories which keeps them to be fit and healthy. Egg yolks have lutein and zeaxanthin. 

When you eat egg yolks you consume two antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin which prevent eye disorders. Choline is a crucial nutrient for brain and liver health you can get that from an egg. The interesting fact is that eggs are high in cholesterol but don't show an increasing sign of cholesterol levels in most people

Actually, eating a full egg increases the good HDL cholesterol by reducing bad LDL cholesterol in the body with increased insulin sensitivity. Also, four eggs contain about 24 grams of protein. You can have eggs in a various way, that's why it's a versatile food. Within a minute you can prepare a boiled egg to eat it as a portable breakfast.

Be healthy and enjoy the National Egg Day on June 3 in every year.

Oatmeal

When you eat oatmeal in the morning you consume both the soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fibers in oatmeal keeps your body cholesterol and blood level lower. 

The insoluble fiber keeps your intestine healthy by preventing constipation. Isn't it a delicious way of making your heart and colon smile.

Eating one cup of cooked oatmeal at breakfast provide you 150 calories. four grams of fiber and six grams of protein. Oats contain minerals, thiamin, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, manganesem, iron and selenium. Having oatmeal in the morining keeping you feeling fuller longer which ensure your weight loss.

Don't forget to celebrate the National Oatmeal Day on October 29 in every year.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is the power house of high protein. It contains much higher amount of protein compared to milk. Proteins build your bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, hair and blood.

In your old age protein keeps the balance of your muscle mass. According to the Mayo Clinic an adult of 65 years old or older requers increased amount of protein between 1 and 1.2 grams per kilogram a day. If you need to avoid meat, greek yogurt can be a great source of protein. One of the most known fact of greek yogurt is that it contains probiotics.

You enjoy a helthy gut when you eat probiotics regularly as it's full of healthy bacteria. These healthy bacteria boost your immune system and keep you away from the diarrhea and stomach pain.  Greek yogurt rich in calcium and helps to build strong muscles and keeps your vital oragans functioning well. Also greek yogurt is a great option for older adults who want to maintain their bone health. These probiotics also contain B-12, Potassium.

Green Tea

If you are looking for a helthier substitute than coffee, well, green tea, the healthiest drink in the world is here.  Start your busy day with your morning green tea. Are you perturbed with your extra pounds. Drink green tea every morning with empty stomach, you will discover a new form of yourself infront of the mirror. Your metabolism increases when you continue drinking green tea.

Do you know green tea works as an anti-aging for you skin? It contains ant-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which prevent the signs of aging and wrinkles on your skin. Additionally it can also protect your skin from sun damage. So what's the harm in trying?

Theanine in green tea is an amino acid which provides a tranquilizing and relaxing effect on the body and is beneficial for those suffering from depression. To stay happy drink green tea in the morning. According to a research drinking green tea regularly reduces the risk of high blood pressure and keep it under controll as well.

Bad cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and can create blockage in the arteries which stop the blood supply to part of your heart. Here green tea is the best option to get rid of the bad cholesterol. It is known fact that green tea slow the growth process of breast cancer. Drinking green tea everyday in the morning reinstate the damaged brain cells and protect them from dying.

Coffee

Start your morning with a cup of hot coffee. Coffee is rich in antioxidants. Two major antioxidants, polyphenols and hydrocinnamic acids play a vital role in combating against free radicals. Free radicals causes cancer and many other diseases. Coffe reduce the free radicals. Daily coffee cosumption in the morning reduce the risk of Type 2 Diabetes. To start your busy day off you can use some gadgets to make your instant morning coffee. Single Serve Coffee Maker is an instant coffee maker gadget that is very effective and helps you to save your valuable time in the morning. Studies have shown that moderate coffe intake 1-3 cups per day reduce risk of depression.

According to a study conducted in Archives of Internal Medicine followed 50,000 women over many decades shows that coffee's antioxidant substance enriched with mood-enhancing property. They noticed that women who drank 2-3 cups of coffee per day, have 15% less depression than the women who weren't offered coffee. Caffeine in coffee leads to controll motor symptoms for people suffering from Parkinson's Disease as well.  

For having high antioxidant content in coffee the World Health Organization delcared that moderate coffee consumption can reduce the risk of liver and uterine cancer. Coffee enriched with alkoloid substance known as trigonelline contains neuro-protective properties which can outstandingly decrease the risk of Alzheimer's and Dementia. You'll be amazed to know that up to 15 million people a year suffer a stroke. You can reduce the risk of stroke by quiting smoking if you are smoker. Also you can consume 2-3 cups of coffee per day to lower the risk of stroke up to 14% compared to those are not drinking coffee. What's more, you should feel good to know that regular coffee consumption can leads to reduce the risk of cirrhosis of the liver up to 43%.  Studies have shown that caffeine found in the coffee is the prime component and It plays an important role to relieve a headache.

Starting your morning off with healthy breakfast can potentially leverage your energy levels, keep a balance in your blood sugar and dominate over your appetite and weight.

Elsewhere, eating unhealthy breakfast make your whole day pale with exhaustion which can be a future threat for your bodily health. If you eat breakfast, make sure you have protein, healthy fat and fiber in the meal.

The post Top 5 Healthiest Foods for Breakfast appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Thứ Ba, 23 tháng 10, 2018

Top 5 Nutritious Food for Bike Riders

A proper nutrition is essential for any sports activity but more so cycling. For you to enjoy riding, you need energy and hydration. You can easily get this from a proper meal.

People often ask: which is the best nutrition for a cyclist?

The reason for this question is that there’s so much information in regards to cyclist’s nutrition which makes it tricky to know what works. Below are the suggested nutritious foods to eat.

1. Carbohydrates

This works as your body fuel. It’s the bodies primary source of energy. The required amount of carbohydrates is stored in the muscles then the rest is stored as body fat. Your body then utilizes this fat as calories when you are depleted of carbohydrates.

While carbohydrates have received a bad reputation, the right amount at the right time works well for a cyclist. The amount you should take in a week is dependent on the miles you ride per week. You could use about 5-9 grams of carbohydrate for every kilo you weigh in a day.

Alternatively, when you are about 2-3 hours away from riding consume a fist size of low glycemic carbohydrates. Don’t be tempted to take a large serving as this may accumulate and increase your weight. Low glycemic carbohydrates digestion is rapid. You may use energy drinks during the ride.

The food you believe that gives you carbohydrates aren’t the same. They have completely different impacts on your energy levels. Some foods may take longer to break down while others may give you more energy than you need.

  • Choose wholegrains slow release carbohydrates for ultimate energy through your ride.
  • Oats, some vegetables and fruits are also great sources of rich carbohydrates.
  • Coconut oil is a healthy kind of fat for your body that will quickly convert to energy.
  • Rye bread toast, scrambled eggs and porridge is good to give you quick energy.
  • Use bananas too before the ride and corn flakes or rice crisps after the ride.

2. Enough calories

As a cyclist or anyone in the different kinds of sports, your calories level requirement increases. However, don’t overconsume the calorie-rich food.

The problem is that when people are allowed to increase their calorie intake, they sometimes surpass the requirement. This works to their disadvantage.

How you calculate your additional calories is by counting the miles you take per day then calculating that with 40-50 calories. Assuming you have gone for 40 miles today, you should consume between 1600-2000 calories.

Expect to feel hungrier than you usually do when cycling because your body is looking for ways to feed the lost body fats.

  • Use some extra olive oil or canola oil when cooking your after cycling meal or hours before you go cycling.
  • Use the different kinds of nuts before riding or immediately after riding.
  • Make sandwiches that contain avocado. 
  • Eat some fatty fish like salmon every once a while.
  • Drink a cup of chocolate milk.
  • Use berries.
  • Carry your snacks along to use during your ride.

Nevertheless, if you are aiming at losing weight then try to reduce the calories intake.  Make it a reduction of about 250 calories. During intense training for your competitions though, just take in the calories because your body needs it.

3. Protein is good

Most people don’t think that protein is essential for sports activities. However, enough protein helps you maintain a healthy body with a bodybuilding characteristic. It’s essential for maintaining the tissues and thus helping in their quick recovery in case of an accident.

Remember, when training you use up your muscle and unless you eat enough protein to help in their recovery, you won’t replenish the damaged tissues. Note that, protein fills you up just the same way calorie-rich food does. So, increase your protein to keep your appetite at bay.

  • The richly fibred beans are a good source of protein aside from lean meat.
  • Use amaranth which is a healthy choice that is gluten-free. It will make your digestion easy and make recovering from injury fast.
  • Scallops and crabs are both rich in protein. The crab meat is responsible for lean muscle mass and omega 3 fatty acid. They are also rich in minerals that boost immunity.
  • Use chicken breasts, milk and eggs.

Here, limit the need to take red meat and processed ones as they are linked to various diseases. Just like your carbohydrate above, limit the amount you consume.

4. Use the right minerals and vitamins

There are 2 kinds of vitamins:

  • Water-soluble vitamins
  • Fat-soluble ones.

The fat-soluble ones which are stored in the body include vitamins A, D, K, & E. The water-soluble ones must be consumed daily for they aren’t stored in the body.

You also need small quantities of calcium, zinc and iron on a daily basis. You can source these nutrients from different veggies and fruits. If you can take five pieces of fruits and veggies per day you will protect your body against diseases while maintaining bone strength.

  • Use supplements like the vitamin c and iron or zinc in moderation to boost your body vitamin.
  • The celery sticks and beetroots will work best to produce Nitrate and other vitamins which you need for a wholesome body development.
  • Carrots, pineapples, cucumbers and tuna salad will give the vitamins and minerals you need.

5. Use different fluids

For a maintained focus and strength, you need to stay hydrated. A cyclist should take about 2 liters of water as they lose a lot of water cycling. For greater balance, use both the water and different kinds of fluids.

Always drink the water to cover for the weight you lost already. This will help you attain a body balance. Remember, the moment you get dehydrated, a slow in performance is expected. Therefore, carry enough bottles of water and fluids to cover for your lost fluids.

Fluids for cyclists

  • Zipvit sport elite: this drink works to reduce fatigue, stomach upset and cramping.
  • Eliver endure drink: it supports your muscles using the proteins, vital minerals and vitamins that it has.
  • Torq natural drink is your energy drink that contains no sweeteners or colors.
  • High 5 energy source 4:1 super carb: the drink is a pack of all the nutrient your body needs. The carbohydrates, proteins and minerals.

Conclusion

When you want to ride fast and steady you should buy the best single speed bikes. You also need the strength to cycle which you will consume from the above nutritious food.

The post Top 5 Nutritious Food for Bike Riders appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Thứ Tư, 17 tháng 10, 2018

What Does Saffron Taste Like? Understanding Its Magical, Expensive Allure!

Spices are among the most common thing you will find in a housewife kitchen.

However, not all spices can afford to be in anyone’s spice cabinet.

At a price range of $2,000 - $10,000 a pound, a spice known as saffron, is by far the most expensive food on the planet— way more than real balsamic vinegar, caviar, and truffles.

And with such price tag, not everyone knows exactly how it tastes like.So, most people would rather just ditch it all in all!

However, you need to know that saffron is a powerful flavored herb commonly used in gourmet dishes and is responsible for that distinctive bright yellow color of Indian biryanis, Spanish paella, French bouillabaisse, and Italian risottomilanese.

Yep, those mouth-watering dish carries an expensive secret within them that is extremely addictive and intoxicating!

But, what is saffron anyways?

Saffron is a spice.

But, what exactly is it?

Well, saffron is the stigma of Crocus Flower.

The term saffron points toward the stigma of a crocus flower, however, biologically speaking, the entire plant is saffron.

Crocus Flower is a perennial plant that is not found in the wild. Its scientific name is Crocus sativaand descended from “wild saffron” which are known to have originated in Greece. This perennial plant has flowers with fine threads and beautiful purple color threads, its style and stigma being crimson in color.

How and Where Are They Harvested?

Saffron flower blooms in a particularly regulated environment and requires a lot of hard work and care. It only has a 2-week time in which they can be harvested during the year and needs to be harvested by hand.

These flowers are delicate with each flower giving only 3 threads of saffron. The fibers are then collected, dried and later formed as the spice saffron, which provides a bright color to the dishes and recipes it is used in.

This is because of its carotenoid pigment inside called crocin. Due to its bright color, saffron is used as a food color and spice all over the world.

Around 90 percent of the world’s total saffron produce came from Iran. These flowers thrive in areas of the Mediterranean maquis and are mostly grown in lands with the dry summer breeze. However, it can also withstand cold temperatures of up to -10 degrees. Crocus flowers show their best growth when basking in the bright sun and only flowers in mid-autumn.

What’s With The Price?

On average, a single flower of crocus can yield 30mg of fresh saffron. So, in order to obtain 1 gram of saffron, around 150 crocus flowers are needed. Furthermore, a significant amount of effort and labor is required since they need to be harvested by hands.

Taking the large amountsintoaccount, it takes a lot of time and effort. Thus, making saffron delicate and extremely expensive.

How About The Taste?

There is no spice more special than saffron in terms of flavor. It has this subtly grassy and earthy aroma and flavor, as well as the similar, sweet floral and honey. With an unmistakable flavor and scent, this spice straddles savory and sweetness effortlessly and grants a prominent golden hue to every dish recipe it graces.

Just a few threads of saffron can transform a lengthy list of dishes and adds a mysterious, magical allure to everything from milk puddings and risottos to fish stews and rich curries.

But, Is It Worth The Cost?

Because of its dizzying price tag, most people turn the other way around. However, saffron is a contentious ingredient. To those who look for authenticity, will never cook a classic saffron-based recipe without this spice. And people with very sensitive palates will argue that saffron adds a unique flavor which you cannot find anywhere else in the world! To such people, that one strand or a little pinch of saffron will make or break the dish, therefore it is worth the high cost.

However, if you are not into those kinds of things, then there are other spices out there you can use to replicate its yellow glow and flavor without breaking the bank.

How To Use Saffron?

After the pain of closing your eyes as you give thousands of dollars to the cashier for a tiny bag of saffron, you might be wondering what you should do with it.

Well, the most classic use of saffron is rice dishes: paellas, pilafs,and risottos. Just a pinch brings brilliant flavor, aroma,and color against the bland grains.

Dessert is another classical use, and this spice can go anywhere vanilla does like cookies and custards. It is also best on vegetables and light meat like poultry, onions,and cauliflower.

In general cooking, saffron is best added early on cooking so that its flavor can fuse to the other ingredients. In case there is already water in the pan, then just crumble the threads or soak them in a tablespoon of water for 10 minutes before adding.If you need the delicate flavor to really come, then keep other seasonings and flavor to a minimum.

Golden Thoughts

The thing with saffron is that every one of us has varying opinions about its taste, thanks to its varying flavor when used. So, you will not know for sure until you try it out for yourself. With so many health benefits saffron can also be added as a spice by juicing it using the best masticating juicer and mixing it with your favorite fruits to get a great concoction.

Whether you use it as the star or a supporting player of your dish, saffron is worth getting to know. This quality stuff is easier to find now than ever, and purchasing an ounce or gram is such an affordable luxury that will surely payfor itself over and over again.

Do you have something on your mind? Feel free to voice it out at the comment section below!

Until then, have fun creating luxurious golden dishes with saffron!

The post What Does Saffron Taste Like? Understanding Its Magical, Expensive Allure! appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Thứ Ba, 16 tháng 10, 2018

Love Coffee? Find the Best Coffee Grinders/Machines for the Perfect Brew

It is for sure that you want to start your day with a good refreshing cup of coffee. It sometimes happens that the coffee that you can have from the market fails to offer that perfect brew which you would love to have while sipping the coffee cup. You may feel frustrated but as you love coffee you try hard to find a way out to have the best of coffee. As you read through you would know ways to have such coffee which would satisfy your culinary taste.

The Way Out To Have A Better Tasting Cup Of Coffee

You may be thinking about how to have the best cup of coffee. The best way is to have coffee grinders which would help you to have the best of coffee which would make the cup more like that which you desire to have. You may be thinking what difference such maker should make to happen. Yes, let us have a look at some of those differences.

Have coffee which is not stale: You generally buy coffee from the market which is pre-grounded. It may be so that such coffee powder may have gone stale long before you bought those and the ultimate result is that you have a cup of coffee which is not the one that you wish to have.

The way out is to have the best coffee machine which will grind your coffee just before you make it. So, there would not be any instance of having a stale coffee which can happen when you buy that from the market. You will definitely love the aroma of the coffee that is instantly grounded and made by the single serve coffee makers that you have in your house. Blue Mountain Coffee is the best-tasting coffee in the world. Jamaican Blue Mountain is also amongst the most expensive coffee beans available on the market.

Way to the perfect grinds size: As you are a lover of coffee you must be aware that there is some predetermined grind size of coffee which is required for the different recipes that you intend to make. The coffee from the market can not only be stale but also may not match the perfect grind size that you desire to have. The best of grinders have availability of different sizes which you can easily select according to the requirement that you have.

Have options for different brewing methods: You must be having different nature of coffee making machines at your house. These machines would be requiring different natures of coffee for having the perfect brew. So, you need to buy different coffee for all the machines that you have.

The best alternative is to buy a grinding machine and a bag of coffee beans and grind it exactly according to the size that best suits the coffee machines that you have at disposal. You will be saving time and money in a way by having such grinding machine at the house.

Consistent taste:  It may so happen that the cups of coffee that you have all along the day do not taste the same. Sometimes it may be bitter and sometimes sour. Yes, that happens if you have purchased a grinder which is not of quality. In such grinders, the grinding size would not be perfect and you will get a mixture of sizes which would lead to coffee cups tasting different.

So, when you intend to buy a grinder select the best even though if you have to spend a few dollars more and have the best of taste.

Control the taste: You must have the desire to improve the taste of the espresso that you daily have. You may be having the best of espresso machines but if the grind of the coffee is not the best then you cannot have that effective control over the taste of the espresso. There are various factors which play a part in making the perfect taste of the espresso.

You can tackle all such factors if you have the best of the grinder and have the ability to make the espresso taste like the one that you desire.

So, it can be said with certainty that you now understand why to have a coffee grinder. Yes, this amazing machine would make your cup of coffee taste as the one that you would love to have a sip at.

How To Have The Best Of Grinder

As you now understand the importance of grinders you have to decide how to have the best in order to have a perfectly tasting coffee. There are basically two types of grinders that you can have—burr and blade. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Let us have a look at those.

Blade Grinders: These grinders have blades which slice the beans of coffee and give you the perfect grind size. You have to run the machine for some time depending on the fineness of the grind that you desire to have. Some even have timers which allow you to set according to the grind size.

The advantage of this nature of grinder is that they are cheap and good for one who has just started to grind coffee beans. There are disadvantages too. The grind size had from such grinder is not uniform and such uneven grind may lead to difficulty in making the perfect espresso or Turkish coffee.

Burr Grinders: This nature of grinder has two burrs. One of those remains still and the other rotates with the help of a rooter. This machine does not slice the coffee beans but crushes them. Using such a coffee grinder you can expect to have an even grind as compared to blade grinders.

The advantages are that it offers precision, consistency in grinding size and gives you a control over the size of the grind. Price is the foremost disadvantage of this nature of grinder. They are heavy and consume more energy adding to the disadvantage of this nature of grinder.

There are some other points to consider when you desire to have the best of the grinder. You need to consider the setting that you can do with the grinder regarding the grind size, the options of dosing, size of the hopper and the speed.

So, now you can easily select the best of the grinder to have a cup of coffee which is just the one that you wish to have.

The post Love Coffee? Find the Best Coffee Grinders/Machines for the Perfect Brew appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Thứ Hai, 15 tháng 10, 2018

Best Popcorn Kernels Reviews 2018: Top 5+ Recommended

Watching in the movie theater?

Streaming your favorite TV series on Netflix?

Maybe just want some tasty, crunchy snacks?

A buttery salted popcorn would be the perfect food for you right now, don’t you think?

And although you can buy cooked popcorns in stores or around the movie house, when you are preparing for a late date night with your family, then there is nothing more convenient than having the best popcorn kernels stored somewhere in your kitchen cabinets.

Not only do you have the fun in popping out those corn kernels, but you also get hot and freshly cooked popcorns for movie date nights!

So, why not stack up with the best popcorn kernels right now?

Popping History of Popcorns

So, you might be having fun watching those popcorns pop. But do you ever wonder why they pop?

The answer is in the corn kernel.

Popcorns come from a variety of corn known as “maize” which produces small kernels with outer shells that are hard. When cooking, the moisture from the kernel steams the pot, causing the outer shell to burst, creating a popping sound and releases a soft inner flake.

Hence, the name popcorn!

In terms of the popcorn’s history, maize first arrived over 2,500 years ago, during the pre-Columbian age. However, in the early 1800s, it was found growing in Mississippi. Indigenous people domesticated in throughout the US and become a good source of nutritional starch as well as food stock for pig fatteners.

The very first popping of popcorns appeared in the year 1820 when the very first popcorn was sold on the east side of America. After 20 years, popcorn has become the favorite snack in the American culture.

Types of Popcorn

Types?

Yep, you’ve read it right!

Popcorn kernels actually differ in flavor, size and color profile.

But don’t get confused!

They are still the yummy snacks that you love to munch on during movie marathons!

In general, kernels are divided into 2 varieties— yellow and white.

Here’s the difference between them:

1. Yellow Popcorn

Yellow popcorn pops, well, a yellow tint. In general, this type of popcorn can be seen being sold at movie houses since it apparently looks more buttery and provides a more distinctive corn flavor, with some individuals describing it as “nutty”.

Yellow popcorns also range in size. Baby yellow popcorn pops slightly smaller than others while extra large caramel and big yellow popcorn pop larger. Bigger ones are great for mixing with glazes, seasoning, and flavors.

2. White Popcorns

White popcorns pop up a sparkling white (duh). It is a bit smaller when compared to the yellow variant and it has a pure and neutral popcorn flavor which goes great with flavors such as sour cream, barbecue, cheese, and chocolate. (Yes, CHOCOLATE!)

A salty popcorn with a sweet rich chocolate flavor is heaven to munch on, just so you know!

White popcorns have the following sub-varieties:

  • Tender & White
  • Sweet Baby Blue
  • Baby white
  • Lady Finger

Some Popcorn Characteristics

Now that we have covered the 2 types of popcorn, I want to show you next to the different characteristics of popcorns:

1. Butterfly-Shaped or Winged Popcorn

It is not a variety of popcorn, but a shape that certain types of popcorn take when it is cooked. If you want toppings and granulated seasoning to coat and stick to every piece of popcorn, then winged popcorns are the best at it!

Butterfly-shaped popcorns can take your seasoning from every nooks and cranny even flaps they have.

2. Hulless Popcorn

Some individuals describe this popcorn as “hulless”.

While all corns have hulls, there is some popcorn with more hulls and some have less.

You know that solid thing that lies at the bottom of your popcorn bag or the hard thingy that gets stuck in between your teeth

Those are hulls.

If you are very much annoyed with picking stuck hulls in between your teeth, then choose a variety which produces less. Typically, the smaller the kernel, the thinner the hull is and the lesser chances of it getting stuck in between your teeth.

Hulless varieties include Tender and White, Vintage Red, Midnight Blue, Lady Finger, Baby Yellow, and Baby White.

3. Mushroom Shapes

As its name implies, mushroom-shaped popcorns pop a round and more solid popcorn, similar to the head of a mushroom. This popcorn shape is suitable for chocolate or caramel glazed popcorns.

It is much stronger than the winged popcorn type since it keeps its shape even under pressure of applying the glazed and heavy coating and will not easily crumble down when mixed with flavorings and seasonings.

Popping Popcorn in 3 Easy Ways

So, let’s talk about the fun part— how to pop a popcorn? Here are 3 easy ways in popping those crunchy corn kernels!

1. Popping on the Stove

You can popcorn kernels on the stove using your usual cooking pan or pot. Just pour some oil into the pan or pan and put on medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot enough, add the corn kernels. Cover the pan or pot and wait until you hear the popping sound. You will know when it’s ready when the popping sound stops.

Put the hot popcorn into a wide bowl and add salt or butter if you want.

2. Microwave Popcorn

The easiest way to cook popcorn is using the microwave. Just put a paper bag filled with popcorn kernels in the microwave. Heat the microwave at maximum power for around 90 seconds. When the timer is up, you can now enjoy your favorite popcorn!

3. Using Hot Air Poppers

Hot air popper, also known as popcorn maker is a machine used or popping corn kernels which blow hot air through the holes in the container holding the kernels. This is a much healthier way of popping corn kernels since it does not require any oil to cook.

These popcorn machines emerged in the late 1970s for commercial use, however, small-scale hot air poppers for home use became available in the most recent decades. Popping corn kernels in a hot air popper is quite simple:

  • Add the corn kernels into the popper.
  • Turn the machine on and place a bowl below the spout of the popcorn maker.
  • Wait until all corn kernels pop.
  • Add butter and salt to taste

The Good in Eating Popcorn

If you are going to eat some snacks, then it is better you choose healthy snacks. And while it usually means replacing processed potato chips with a bowl of apple or carrot slices, an occasional bag of popcorn is not such a bad idea.

Popcorns are lighter on the stomach than most popular snack foods. There are numerous studies which have confirmed that the kernel hulls of popcorns possess a higher amount of polyphenols than most fruits.

Polyphenols help in developing strong tissue as well as preventing various types of cellular deterioration which can lead to cancer, liver disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, polyphenols are a great form of antioxidant, meaning popcorns can help in giving your skin a youthful glow.

Other than that, popcorn also nourishes your body by way of whole grains. Whole grains are packed with B vitamins as well as fiber, minerals, protein and vitamin E. For instance, one cup of popcorn contains around 1 gram of fiber. Food rich in fiber are proven to reduce cholesterol, thus minimizing the risk of particular heart illnesses including arrhythmia and diabetes.

Things to Consider When Buying a Popcorn Kernel

All these talks about popcorns might have made you crave for popcorns and you might already be dressed and ready to go out to get some kernels from your local store to munch on.

Wait!

Before you do that, you need to consider a few things in order to help you buy the best popcorn kernels out there!

1. The Packaging

Like any other edible materials, it is crucial that the popcorn kernels have good packaging in order to ensure safe storage for your popcorns. Choose popcorn kernels in resealable bags or containers with airtight lids since they can help in preserving the freshness of the popcorn kernels.

The packaging also needs to have a readable and clear description of nutritional facts for you to be aware of certain ingredients you might be allergic to.

2. Amount Per Pack

You also need to consider the number of popcorn kernels in each packet. You do not want to buy a large number of popcorn kernels that you might not be able to finish by yourself. Also, you do not want to buy packets with too little kernels for a big family and running out of popcorn snacks right before you can even start your favorite TV shows!

You need to assess how many ounces of popcorn kernels you need and stock up your kitchen accordingly so there is no shortage or wasted popcorns.

3. Kernel Variety

There are various types of popcorn kernels and we all have our own preference. You can usually find white and yellow popcorn kernels in the market, however, there are also purple, red and blue ones if you wish to explore the textures and flavors of different popcorns. Each popcorn variety has their own unique size, amount of hulls, texture, and flavors you can experiment on.

4. Regular Kernels VS. Seasoned Kernels

If you want the greatest freedom in taste, then choosing regular, unseasoned popcorn kernels is the right one for you since you will be the one to decide which seasoning you can add on it.

However, if you want an easy and quick preparation, then go for popcorn kernels with seasoning and oils. All you need to do is to add these kernels to your pan, a microwave of the electric popper, wait for them to pop, and you’re ready to munch!

The Top 5 Best Popcorn Kernels 2018

#1: Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn Organic Popping Corn

Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn Organic Popping Corn

Via Amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

A popular brand of popcorn kernels, Franklin’s Gourmet offers this 7 pounds tub of certified organic popping corn kernels for you and your family. Franklin’s Gourmet has created popcorn products for too long and these popcorn kernels are non-GMO popping corns which are grown from Iowa and then packaged at Wisconsin— from true farm to your table, guaranteeing only the freshest popcorns out there!

Franklin’s Gourmet Popcorn Organic Popping Corn might not be the cheapest you can find in the market today, however, it makes up with its freshness and heavenly taste! If this promise is not fulfilled, you can have your money back, no questions asked!

What We Like

  • Pops really well
  • Non-GMO and organic popcorn kernels
  • Fresh from corn farms
  • Reputable brand
  • Enough for the whole family

What We Don't Like

  • Thick hulls
  • Popcorn is stale
  • Corn is too dry

#2: Kauffman’s Fruit Farm Non-GMO Red Popcorn

Kauffman’s Fruit Farm Non-GMO Red Popcorn

Via Amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

If you have tried both yellow and white popcorns, then you might have been wanting to try something new! Well, look no more! Bring home this RED popcorn kernels from Kauffman’s Fruit Farm!

Being red in color, you might be scared to try it out since you might think that these are artificially colored or genetically modified— but these popcorn kernels are not! This red popcorn kernels are certified non-GMO and is grown by Amish Country Popcorn.

It is naturally cross-bred in order to produce the bright red color that is quite similar to Medium White. These red popcorn kernels have less flaky hulls, so you can enjoy eating it without any hulls getting stuck between your teeth. It pops meaty and fluffy white every time, and you got a lot of option for dressing and seasoning it up.

What We Like

  • Non-GMO
  • Naturally cross-bred
  • Less flaky hulls
  • Bright red color

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging bags could have been better

#3: Orville Redenbacher’s Yellow Gourmet Popcorn Kernels

Orville Redenbacher’s Yellow Gourmet Popcorn Kernels

Via Amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

In terms of popcorn brands, Orville will always have a place among the best. Why? Because they create high-quality popcorn that offers great taste and freshness. This Non-GMO Yellow Popcorn kernels are delicious and pack a lot of crunches you will surely love!

The kernel size is suitable for popcorn poppers which can help save you effort and time in making these tasty popcorns at home. You can purchase from 5 to 11 pounds of kernels, depending on your craving needs.

Another great thing about this popcorn kernels is its container. It is built solidly so you can reuse it for other purposes when you finished all your corn kernels. It also has a hollow handle so you will not feel cheated by tricky packaging.

What We Like

  • Hulls stay attached to popped kernels
  • Certified non-GMO
  • The container is easy to store and reusable
  • Tasty and fresh popcorns
  • Comes in 5 to 11 pounds of kernels

What We Don't Like

  • Some corn kernels do not pop
  • Some kernels can get stuck on the hollow handle
  • Popcorn may become stale before you can even use it

#4: Country Harvest Popcorn 4-Ounce Poppers

Country Harvest Popcorn 4-Ounce Poppers

Via Amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

The Country Harvest Popcorn Kernels comes in a pre-measured serving for you to easily make popcorns one batch at a time. The packaging also features a tri-pack system which has the seasoning and oil in separate compartments. This is particularly useful when you do not know how much oils or seasoning you need to add in order for the popcorns to taste great.

This popcorn offers a slight tint of yellow color from the hull and produces large fluffs for a crunchy experience. It also has a slightly nutty flavor, particularly peanut or walnut flavoring, although there are no nuts included in the ingredients. This popcorn kernels are gluten-free, non-GMO and are directly sourced from local farms which ensures its freshness and tastiness.

What We Like

  • High level of crunchiness
  • Comes with seasoning and oils
  • Pre-measured
  • Gluten-free
  • Non-GMO
  • Clear nutritional facts at the back of the packet

What We Don't Like

  • Kernels are expensive per ounce than other types of popcorn kernels
  • Features a plastic bag which is hard to handle

#5: Franklin’s Gourmet Movie Theater Popcorn

Franklin’s Gourmet Movie Theater Popcorn

Via Amazon.com

  • Quality
  • Price
  • Our rating

If you are looking for a strictly organic popcorn kernel which uses no animal fat and contains no gluten or non-GMO, with the added requirements of packets being pre-measured for smaller portions, then these 2-ounce popcorn packets from Franklin’s Gourmet would be your best choice.

The compact popcorn packets include 3 compartments which separate the kernels, seasoning, and oils and are the best for making home popcorns or can be tossed in your camping bag for making popcorns outdoors.

Other than being Gluten-free, non-GMO, and certified organic, these popcorn kernels are also peanut-free, soy-free, Vegan and Kosher, so you can make it for your guests or family without having to worry about the chances of someone being allergic to particular ingredients. The included oil is 100% coconut oil and is measured to be just the right amount for healthier and tasty popcorns you can munch on!

What We Like

  • Nutritional facts and instructions in cooking the popcorn are clearly given at the back of the packets
  • Pre-measured 2 oz. portions of kernels
  • Pre-measured seasoning and oils in separate containers
  • Organic and non-GMO
  • Free of soy, peanut, gluten
  • Vegan popcorn

What We Don't Like

  • Its size may not be enough for a large group of people

The Popping King

And now, the popcorn kernel that has the biggest “pop” would be…Franklin’s Gourmet Movie Theater Popcorn!

Being gluten-free, peanut-free, soy-free, vegan, certified non-GMO and organic popcorn, t is pretty much the safest and healthiest option among the 5 popcorn kernels! Also, it comes with the needed healthy seasoning, so you can just toss it to the pot or popcorn maker, wait for the popping fun and you can go on and munch it right away!

Popping Thoughts

A bowl of popcorn is among the best snacks there is— from movie marathons to camping snacks to late night talks. And although this delicious snack can be bought ready-made, there is nothing more fun than making it yourself at homes and hearing that popping sound and heavenly smell!

So, what are you waiting for? Get one of the best popcorn kernels mentioned above and treat your family to a large bowl of popcorns this evening!

What’s that? You know some tasty popcorn kernels I don’t know about? Feel free to share it with us so we can experience the goodness! Just hit up the comment section below!

Until then, have a fun, popping time!

The post Best Popcorn Kernels Reviews 2018: Top 5+ Recommended appeared first on Cooky Mom.