u/CullodenChef

Okay, first— I live in China.

I make microwave popcorn in the Tupperware silicone popper about 2x a day.

Sam’s Club no longer stocks the microwave kind. I can order yellow or white JiffyPop for about $8 a bag. Occasionally I break down and order a 3 box of Magic Time Cheddar — for like $9.

I can get vac pac bricks of corn kernels inexpensively (1kg/2.2lb for $2). It *says* it’s grown for popcorn, but it’s very very dry. I have been putting the kernels in a Tupperware pickle keeper (has a strainer) and covering with corn oil. Ya know, corn for corn.

It’s … fine.

Should I experiment with a little water instead? Some other form of hydration? Some other approach entirely? Popping plain (micro or stovetop or air machine) results in mostly hot burnt kernels and smoky sadness.

I have been doing OAMC for 30+y and recently when I mentioned it (again) in this sub, a few commenters had questions.

I’ll post some links to several (albeit very, very old) sites with great info.

ETA: In general, OAMC is practiced by moms of large families who have many mouths to feed and also are often in a faith community, practicing hospitality (and homeschool).

The goal is frequently to get a month’s worth of family meals into the freezer by using most of a Friday and all of a Saturday on prepping and cooking and storing. Budget and ease are co-priorities, followed by variety and simplicity.

As a single mom and also an expat, I used OAMC in order to free time and have “real American comfort food” readily available. Now, I’m still overseas (but with all kids back in The States), so OAMC is a way to mange my “cook for at least 6” type style; it’s just 6 dinners instead of 6 people!!