How does one reuse the kernels that don pop in the popcorn bag?
There are thousands of things to do with the unpopped kernels but here are just a few:
1. Collect them in a scrapbook and arrange them in interesting ways using tacky glue and glitter (organic of course) and other brightly colored objects.
2. Examine each kernel with a magnifying glass looking for portraits of famous people like Saint Francis of Assisi, The Madonna, (or Madonna the singer/actress), or President Obama.
3. Make your own maracas by recycling small plastic juice bottles. (Wash and dry bottles, drill a small hole in bottle cap, insert a sharpened pencil into the hole, drop a few kernels into the bottle and screw on the lid (with the pencil stuck tightly—a glue gun can be used to keep the pencil secure).
4. This is great for April Fool’s Day. Use the bottoms of egg cartons filled with potting soil and insert a kernel in each one. Then give to people you want to fool and tell them to keep the soil moist for several days. (nothing will grow of course because the kernels have been microwaved).
5. Grind the kernels in a stone mortar and pestle until you have made corn meal. Add a slight amount of liquid (some prefer mare’s milk, others chicken stock, white wine, unsalted butter, sesame oil, or Crisco). Spread liberally on your face under a full moon. Let it dry in place and then remove with warm water and a chisel. Your skin will thank you in the morning.
6. Trade the kernels to a gullible young man sent to town to sell the family cow, car or truck. Tell him that if he plants these seeds they may grow and grow and grow until they reach a place in the clouds where a giant guards a magic harp and a beautiful princess.
