Sunday, April 5, 2020

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How to Flavor Popcorn

Posted: 05 Apr 2020 05:00 PM PDT

Seasoning popcorn is a great way to take it to the next level. While you can always stick with the classic salt-and-butter combo, there are many other flavorful combinations that you can try. The key to getting the seasoning to stick to the popcorn is to toss the popcorn with some melted butter or oil first. Be sure to add the seasoning as soon as possible, however, or it won't stick.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Using Savory Seasonings

  1. Make a Cajun powder blend if you like spicy flavors. Pour 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of melted butter over 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn, then toss it to mix. Immediately add 3 to 4 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning to the popcorn, then toss it to mix everything.[1]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 1 Version 6.jpg
    • To make Cajun seasoning, mix: 2 teaspoons of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 2 tablespoons of salt, and ½ teaspoon of freshly-ground black pepper.
    • For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  2. Use chili powder, salt, and ground cumin for a Southwestern flavor. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of melted butter over 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn. Toss the popcorn to distribute the butter, then add about 3 to 4 tablespoons of chili seasoning. Toss the popcorn again so that the seasoning coats it evenly.[2]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 2 Version 6.jpg
    • To make your own chili seasoning, combine: 1½ teaspoons of chili powder, 2 tablespoons of salt, and 1 tablespoon of ground cumin.[3]
  3. Try some curry powder for a unique flavor. Toss 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn with 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of melted butter. Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of your curry blend. Toss the popcorn again to evenly distribute the seasoning. To make the seasoning blend, combine the following:[4]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 3 Version 6.jpg
    • 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 2 tablespoons of salt, ¼ teaspoon of freshly-ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, and 1 pinch of cayenne pepper.
  4. Combine popcorn with melted butter and Mac & Cheese powder. Drizzle 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of melted butter over 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn, then toss it so that it is evenly coated. Shake ¼ cup (32 g) of Mac & Cheese powder over the popcorn while stirring it.[5]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 4 Version 6.jpg
    • Mac & Cheese powder is not the same thing as grated cheese. It's a seasoning that you use to make macaroni and cheese.
  5. Make Cool Ranch with powdered buttermilk, pepper, salt, and dried dill. Pour 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of extra-virgin olive oil over 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn, then toss it to combine. Mix together your Cool Ranch seasoning, add it to your popcorn, and toss it again.[6]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 5 Version 6.jpg
    • To make the seasoning, mix 2 tablespoons of powdered buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of freshly-ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons of dried dill, and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt.
    • Make sure that you are using powdered buttermilk and not regular milk.
    • For a simpler version, use 1 packet of Ranch Dressing seasoning instead.[7]
  6. Mix some parmesan cheese and rosemary into your popcorn. Mix 16 cups (128 g) of popcorn with 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of olive oil. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup (50 g) of grated parmesan cheese with 1 tablespoon of chopped, fresh rosemary and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. Mix this into the popcorn.[8]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 6 Version 6.jpg
  7. Bake popcorn with cheddar, parmesan, and pecorino. Combine 16 cups (128 g) of popcorn with 2 cups (200 g) of shredded cheddar, 1 cup (100 g) of grated parmesan, and 1/2 cup (50 g) of grated pecorino. Spread the mix over a baking sheet, then bake it at for 3 minutes. Season the popcorn with a dash of salt before serving.[9]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 7 Version 6.jpg
    • You need to spread the popcorn in a thin layer across the baking sheet. If it goes above the rim, get a second baking sheet.
    • If you don't have enough baking sheets, then bake the popcorn in batches.
  8. Go gourmet with bacon and chives. Chop and cook 6 slices of bacon. Drain it on paper towels and save the grease. Toss 16 cups (128 g) of popcorn with 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of bacon grease and 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of melted butter. Mix the popcorn with the bacon, 1/2 cup (24 g) of chopped chives, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and a dash of salt.[10]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 8 Version 6.jpg
    • After you fry the bacon, hold the bacon back with a spatula as you pour the grease into a cup or jar.
    • You may have some bacon grease leftover. Save it for another recipe or toss it into the trash; do not pour it down the drain.

[Edit]Trying Sweet Flavors

  1. Try some caramel popcorn for a traditional treat. In a large pot, bring to a boil of melted butter, 2⅔ cups (534 g) of brown sugar, and of golden syrup. Cook it for 1 minute, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Pour the caramel over 24 cups (192 g) of popcorn, then give the popcorn another stir. Spread it over wax paper to cool.[11]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 9 Version 6.jpg
    • The popcorn will be clumpy after it cools, so gently break it up with your fingers.
  2. Pour honey butter over your popcorn if you have a sweet tooth. Melt ¼ cup (55 g) of unsalted butter, then stir in ¼ cup (90 g) of honey and ½ teaspoon of salt. Pour the mixture over 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn, then give the popcorn a stir so that it is evenly coated.[12]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 10 Version 6.jpg
  3. Mix popcorn with butter, sugar, salt, and cinnamon for a tasty treat. Toss 10 cups (80 g) of popcorn with 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of melted butter. In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Add this to the popcorn, then toss it to mix.[13]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 11 Version 5.jpg
    • Use other baking spices, like pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice for a unique twist!
  4. Make some chocolate-mint popcorn for a wintery treat. Toss 3½ quarts (112 g) of popcorn with ⅓ cup (68 g) of crushed peppermints. Melt ½ pound (226 g) of white chocolate candy melts, then pour it over the popcorn. Toss the popcorn again to coat it, then spread it out on waxed paper to cool.[14]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 12 Version 5.jpg
    • If the popcorn clumps together, break it up with your fingers after it cools.
  5. Make some peanut butter popcorn, then toss it with M&Ms. Bring 1 cup (225 g) of sugar and 1 cup (350 g) of honey to a boil over medium heat. Cook it for 5 minutes, then stir in 1 cup (250 g) of peanut butter. Mix it into 3½ quarts (112 g) of popcorn, then top it off with some M&Ms.[15]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 13 Version 5.jpg
    • Add some pretzels for extra crunch.
    • How many M&Ms and pretzels you use is up to you. A handful of each should be plenty, however.
  6. Try a tropical blend with coconut, dried pineapple, and powdered sugar. Bake 2 cups (120 g) of shredded coconut at for 10 minutes. Mix 16 cups (128 g) of popcorn with 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of melted butter. Add the coconut, 1 1/2 cups (204 g) of dried pineapple, and 3 tablespoons (24 g) of powdered sugar. Toss the popcorn to combine.[16]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 14 Version 5.jpg
    • Spread the coconut in a thin layer across the baking sheet so that it toasts evenly.
    • The dried pineapple should already come chopped/ If it didn't, you'll need to chop it into smaller pieces yourself.
    • If this is too sweet for you, add a dash of salt to the popcorn.
  7. Mix up a crunchy treat with cinnamon cereal, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix 12 cups (96 g) of popcorn with 6 tablespoons (90 mL) of melted butter. Add 4 cups (100 g) of cinnamon-flavored cereal, 1/3 cup (75 g) of sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Toss the popcorn to combine everything.[17]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 15 Version 5.jpg
    • An example of cinnamon-flavored cereal is Cinnamon Toast Crunch. You can also used crumbled graham crackers for a similar flavor.
  8. Whip up a rocky road treat with marshmallows, chocolate, and pecans. Mix 16 cups (128 g) of popcorn with 5 tablespoons (75 mL) of melted butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 2 teaspoons of salt. Toss it with 2 cups (100 g) of mini marshmallows, 2 cups (350g) of chocolate chips, and 2 cups (200 g) of toasted pecans. Bake it at for 2 minutes.[18]
    Flavor Popcorn Step 16 Version 5.jpg
    • Spread the popcorn mixture in a thin layer across 1 to 2 baking sheets.
    • Allow the popcorn to cool and harden before you serve it. Break it up into smaller pieces.
    • Switch the pecans out for 2 cups (170 g) of crushed graham crackers to make S'mores popcorn!

[Edit]Tips

  • Experiment to find which flavoring you like best. Be creative, and don't be afraid to try new things.
  • How much of the seasoning you use is really up to you. You can increase or decrease the amount to suit your liking.
  • You can microwave the popcorn or you can make it from scratch in a pot. If you're making microwave popcorn, use the unbuttered, unsalted kind.
  • If you are making popcorn from scratch, consider using a different kind of oil in the pot, such as bacon grease. Make sure that it has a high smoking point, however![19]
  • For more flavor, try infused olive oil or coconut oil.[20]

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

  1. http://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/popcorn-seasoning-mixes-112365
  2. https://www.seriouseats.com/2012/02/10-fun-toppings-for-popcorn-flavors-seasonings-slideshow.html
  3. http://www.geniuskitchen.com/recipe/popcorn-seasoning-mixes-112365
  4. https://www.seriouseats.com/2012/02/10-fun-toppings-for-popcorn-flavors-seasonings-slideshow.html
  5. https://www.seriouseats.com/2012/02/10-fun-toppings-for-popcorn-flavors-seasonings-slideshow.html
  6. https://www.seriouseats.com/2012/02/10-fun-toppings-for-popcorn-flavors-seasonings-slideshow.html
  7. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  8. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  9. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  10. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  11. https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/flavored-popcorn-recipes/view-all/
  12. https://www.thekitchn.com/5-fabulous-ways-to-flavor-your-popcorn-227616
  13. http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/cinnamon-sugar-popcorn-1
  14. https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/flavored-popcorn-recipes/view-all/
  15. https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/flavored-popcorn-recipes/view-all/
  16. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  17. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  18. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/articles/50-flavored-popcorn-recipes
  19. https://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/cooking-tips/article/stovetop-popcorn
  20. https://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/cooking-tips/article/stovetop-popcorn

How to Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in

Posted: 05 Apr 2020 09:00 AM PDT

If your shower curtain blows in on you and sticks to your body, this can make taking showers frustrating. Luckily, there are lots of easy fixes to keep your curtain hanging straight down or up against the tub. Use things you already have around the house like magnets or binder clips to weigh down the curtain, or pick out a store-bought option that's right for you. Fixing your shower curtain only takes a few minutes and is super easy.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Attaching Items to the Shower Curtain

  1. Place binder clips along the curtain to weigh it down more. If you already have 4-5 large binder clips at home, this is the perfect way to fix your curtain quickly. Clip binder clips along the bottom edge of the curtain, spacing them out evenly. The added weight will help keep your curtain from blowing in when the water is turned on.[1]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 1.jpg
    • If your curtain is still blowing in, consider adding more binder clips to add additional weight.
    • Avoid leaving the binder clips on your curtain at all times so they don't leave rust stains.
  2. Purchase curtain weight clips for an easy pre-made option. Stores sell weighted curtain clips that you can clip right onto the bottom edge of your shower curtain, keeping it from blowing in. Look for these clips at your local home goods store or online, picking out the color and design that you'd like and spreading them out evenly along the bottom of your shower curtain.[2]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 2.jpg
    • Shower curtain clips come in many different colors, sizes, and styles.
  3. Attach magnets to the curtain if you have a magnetic tub. Use heavy-duty magnets that you already have at home or purchase strong magnets made specifically for shower curtains that clip on or have adhesive. Attach the magnets near the bottom of the shower curtain so that when you go to take a shower, the magnets will hold the curtain up against the tub.[3]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 3.jpg
    • If you're not sure whether your tub is magnetic or not, test it out using a regular fridge magnet.
  4. Stick suction cups along your shower curtain to hold it in place. Shower curtain suction cups can be bought in stores and are placed along the bottom edge of your curtain with the suction cup facing the tub. When it's time to take a shower, adhere each suction cup to the tub so the curtain stays in place.[4]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 4.jpg
    • If you don't want to attach suction cups to your shower curtain permanently, use binder clips to clip them onto the curtain for easy removal.
  5. Add small weights to the bottom of the curtain to make it heavier. Weights can be added to your shower curtain in many different ways. You might glue small rocks or flat weighted objects to the curtain that you have around the house, or you can purchase ornamental weights that are made just for shower curtains. Place the weights along the bottom edge of your shower curtain, spreading them out evenly.[5]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 5.jpg
    • Many store-bought weights for your shower curtain can be clipped on.

[Edit]Weighing Down the Curtain with Other Strategies

  1. Wet the shower curtain liner so it sticks against the tub. This is a quick and easy fix that works on most shower curtains. Before you shower, turn the shower head to the side of the tub to spray water along the shower curtain, dampening it so it sticks against the tub. It's only necessary to wet the bottom portion of the shower curtain, and be careful not to spray water outside of the tub.[6]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 6.jpg
    • You can also wet the shower curtain by filling a cup with water and pouring it on the bottom of the shower curtain instead.
  2. Buy a heavy shower liner to keep your curtain in place. If you don't want to add anything to your shower curtain, consider purchasing a heavy shower liner that will go over the curtain and hold it in place against the tub as you shower. Look for a shower curtain liner labeled as "heavy" or "weighted" from a home goods or big box store.[7]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 7 Version 3.jpg
  3. Put lead tape into the hem of your curtain, if possible. If your shower curtain has an open hem along the bottom that you can slide things into, purchase a roll of lead or magnetic tape. Flatten the tape if possible and push it into the hem of the curtain as far in as it will go. The weight of the tape will help hold the curtain in place so it doesn't blow.[8]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 8.jpg
    • Using strong magnetic tape in the hem can also help hold the curtain up against a magnetic tub.
    • Flatten the tape by placing heavy items on long strands of it.
  4. Use a curved shower rod to pull the curtain away from you. Swap out a straight shower rod for a curved one, meaning the shower rod arches out and away from you while you're in the shower so you have more room. Curved shower rods help prevent the curtain from blowing in because they're pulling the curtain away from the tub.[9]
    Keep a Shower Curtain from Blowing in Step 9.jpg
    • Curved shower rods are attached just like normal ones and use the same curtain rod hooks.

[Edit]References

How to Make a Facial Mask

Posted: 05 Apr 2020 01:00 AM PDT

Facial masks can help your face go from dry and dull to soft and bright, and you can make your own using basic household ingredients. Learn how to make four different types of masks: a pore-minimizing mask, a moisturizing mask, an acne-soothing mask and a quick toning mask.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Making a Pore-Minimizing Mask

  1. Gather the ingredients. This mask works to reduce the appearance of pores with clay, which pulls dead skin cells and other pore-clogging debris away from your skin as it dries on your face. Go to health food stores and get the following supplies:[1]
    Make a Facial Mask Step 1 Version 5.jpg
    • Bentonite clay, which draws out impurities.
    • Oatmeal, which leaves your skin feeling baby soft.
    • Essential oil of your choice, such as peppermint or lemongrass, for an added sweet scent.
  2. Mix up the mask. Place a tablespoon of Bentonite clay, a tablespoon of oatmeal and a tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Use a spoon or whisk to thoroughly mix the mask.

    • Add a few drops of essential oil if you want to feel the effects of aromatherapy as the mask works its magic.
    • Using the same ratio of ingredients, you can make a larger batch and store the unused mask in a jar with a tight-fitting lid for later use.
  3. Apply the mask. Rub the mask lightly over your forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. Let it sit for 15 - 20 minutes, until it is completely dry.[2]

  4. Rinse the mask. Splash lukewarm or cool water over your face to rinse away the clay. Blot your face dry with a soft towel and apply a moisturizer to finish.

[Edit]Making a Moisturizing Mask

  1. Gather the ingredients. You can make a moisturizing mask with ingredients you probably have in your kitchen. Check your cabinets or go to the grocery store to get the following supplies:[3]
    Make a Facial Mask Step 5 Version 4.jpg
    • Honey, which has natural antibacterial and moisturizing properties.
    • Olive oil or almond oil, each of which leaves your skin smooth and supple.
    • Apple cider vinegar, a natural toner that can also be used to condition your hair.
  2. Mix up the mask. Place a tablespoon of honey, a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Use a spoon or whisk to stir the mixture until it is completely combined.[4]

    • Store extra moisturizing mask in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and keep it in the refrigerator until you want to use it again.
    • Add a teaspoon of plain yogurt or oatmeal for an even softer result.
  3. Apply the mask. Starting with a clean face, rub the mask liberally over your skin. Make sure to apply plenty to areas that are the driest, like your forehead and the bridge of your nose. Let the mask dry for 15 minutes.

  4. Rinse the mask. Use cool water to remove the mask and tone your skin. There's no need to moisturize afterward; your skin should be soft and fresh.
    Make a Facial Mask Step 8 Version 4.jpg

[Edit]Making an Acne-Soothing Mask

  1. Gather the ingredients. Acne tends to pop up during stressful times of life. This face mask soothes inflamed skin and includes essential oil to calm your mind, too. Take a trip to the grocery store for the following ingredients:[5]
    Make a Facial Mask Step 9 Version 4.jpg
    • Lemon juice, which has astringent properties and tones your face. Buy a fresh lemon and squeeze the juice; pre-squeezed juice may have preservatives that are hard on your sensitive facial skin.
    • Honey, which softens the skin and eases inflammation.
    • Egg white, which brightens and tones skin.
    • Lavender or rosemary essential oil.
  2. Mix up the mask. Place a tablespoon of lemon juice, a tablespoon of honey, one egg white, and a few drops of essential oil in a bowl. Use a spoon or a whisk to stir until the ingredients are completely incorporated.[6]

    • This mask is made with perishable ingredients, so any extra mask mixture should be stored in the refrigerator in a jar with a lid.
    • You only need a couple of drops of essential oil; a little goes a long way.
  3. Apply the mask. Smooth a liberal amount of the mixture over your face, gently applying it to the areas where you have acne. Don't rub or scrub it into your face, since you risk inflaming your skin even more. Let the mask sit on your face for 15 minutes.

  4. Rinse the mask. Use lukewarm or cool water to rinse away the mask, then pat your face dry with a soft towel. Apply an oil-free moisturizer to finish.[7]

[Edit]Making a Quick Toning Mask

  1. Tone your face with an egg white. Crack an egg into two halves over a bowl. Transfer the yolk back and forth between the two shells until the white has collected in the bowl. Apply the egg white to your face and let it sit for five minutes before rinsing with warm water.[8]

  2. Use a splash of apple cider vinegar. For a toner that softens your skin as well, splash a teaspoon or two of apple cider vinegar over your face and let it sit for five minutes. Rinse it off with warm water. Make sure not to leave any traces, or you'll smell like vinegar for the rest of the day.
    Make a Facial Mask Step 14 Version 5.jpg
  3. Make a quick oatmeal mask. Mix a tablespoon of oatmeal with a tablespoon of warm water and apply it to your face. Let the mixture dry for five minutes, then rinse it off with warm water.

  4. Rub your face with coconut oil. This sweet-smelling substance cleanses and moisturizes the skin. Rub it over your face and let it sit for five minutes before rinsing your face with warm water.[9]


[Edit]Tips

  • Add a drop of honey or a dash of brown sugar for a sweet scent after- (careful, or you'll attract flies! Seriously.)
  • After washing the facial, some people tend to rub their face in the towel; instead pat dry your face to avoid redness.
  • If you have long hair, you may want to put it up in a ponytail before applying the facial.
  • Look up facial masks that you would like to try to add them all together.
  • If you're going to spend the time letting this dry etc, take the time to take a warm bath, listen to relaxing music, put on a fuzzy bathrobe, watch a chick flick, anything that floats your spa boat.
  • Some alternatives are to replace the fruit ingredient (strawberry or banana) with avocado and add the egg and oatmeal. Avocado is a natural moisturizer that will do wonders for your skin.

[Edit]Warnings

  • Rinse immediately if facial comes in contact with eyes.
  • Don't eat the facial. This may sound silly, but since they are food ingredients, you may be tempted.
  • Don't use Quaker-brand packets of oatmeal, the commonly used kind! They have a ton of extra ingredients, way too much.

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Pore-Minimizing Mask

  • Bentonite clay
  • Oatmeal
  • Peppermint or lemongrass essential oil

[Edit]Moisturizing Mask

  • Honey
  • Olive oil
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Yogurt or oatmeal (optional)

[Edit]Acne-Soothing Mask

  • Lemon juice (fresh-squeezed)
  • Egg white
  • Honey
  • Lavender or rosemary essential oil

[Edit]Quick Toning Mask

  • Egg white
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Oatmeal
  • Coconut oil

[Edit]Related wikiHows

[Edit]References

[Edit]Quick Summary

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