A kernel of truth Premium

Legend would have us believe that English colonists were first introduced to popcorn on February 22, 1630. While historians are now more or less certain that that story is more myth than truth, there’s no denying that native Americans have had popcorns for thousands of years. Grab your popcorn as A.S.Ganesh lets you in on certain kernels of truth…

There aren’t many everyday routines that are both overtly essential, while at the same time almost a form of art. Cooking, however, is one such routine that blends creativity, skill, and science to transform individual ingredients into dishes that are not just essential for our consumption and living, but also double up as unique, flavourful delights for our taste buds. Some take it to another level and make it a treat for the eyes as well with the way they present their dishes and make it visually appealing. 

Cooking, by no means, is an easy task (don’t let anyone convince you otherwise). Regardless of the quality of the cooking, doing it day after day takes a certain devotion and is often thankless. Not everyone is meant for cooking either. But for those who enjoy cooking, regardless of how often they are at it, the process could even be comforting and the results might be magical. 

It might not be a stretch to assume that it is these various cooks — be it the inspired magicians or the devoted daily practitioners — who are behind most of the recipes that we now enjoy worldwide. It is often impossible to trace back to one person who might have been responsible for a dish, especially those that have been around for time immemorial. One such dish is still a favourite snack… popcorn.

One of the most popular snacks across the globe, popcorn has a history that traces back to thousands of years. It certainly didn’t have the many flavours that we now enjoy, nor did it even start out as a snack!

Corn was first domesticated nearly 9,000 years ago in Mexico. Even though it is a rather tough task, archaeologists have been able to piece together various pieces of the jigsaw puzzle to confirm beyond doubt that ancient inhabitants of these regions went on to eat corn in several ways, including popcorn and flour corn.

Cobs date roughly from 6,500-4,000 years ago from the "A" to the "C". A is Proto-Confite Morocho race; B, Confite Chavinense maize race; C, Proto-Alazan maize race. | Photo Credit: Smithsonian Institution Archives