The Warmth and Taste of Old-fashioned Popcorn in Chinese Winter
While strolling through the streets of China during winter, you may occasionally hear a "pop" sound. Fear not, for this is not an explosion or gunshot, but rather the delightful traditional snack of old-fashioned popcorn. Following the "pop," a scent of roasted corn fills the air, instantly dispelling the cold. For many Chinese, it is not just a snack but also a warm memory of winter. Are you curious to learn more? This article will introduce you to it!
The process of crafting popcorn by the skilled masters is akin to a brilliantly staged performance. They carefully pour corn kernels into the "belly" of the popcorn爆米花(bào mǐ huā) machine, adding a dash of saccharin or white sugar, then slowly turn the machine's handle. As the temperature rises gradually, the pressure inside the popcorn machine increases. The masters vigilantly observe the pressure gauge, calmly making final preparations. Finally, covering the machine's outlet with a piece of tattered fabric, the master shouts, "Bang!" Suddenly, a thunderous "pop" breaks the street's tranquility. Wisps of smoke waft into the air as the popcorn eagerly bursts out of the machine, promptly filling the net. The rich sweet aroma quickly lures pedestrians nearby.
爆米花 (bào mǐ huā), noun, popcorn
Examples:
- I love eating popcorn while watching movies.
我喜欢看电影时吃爆米花。
wǒ xǐ huān kàn diàn yǐng shí chī bào mǐ huā 。 - The smell of popcorn filled the theater.
电影院里充满了爆米花的香味。
diàn yǐng yuàn lǐ chōng mǎn le bào mǐ huā de xiāng wèi 。
Unlike the modern popcorn with uniform shapes and varied flavors, each kernel of old-fashioned popcorn is unique. Some are plump and round, resembling small cotton balls, while others carry a hint of roasted fragrance, as delicate as a moth's wing. The first bite releases a satisfyingly crispy "crack." The corn kernels joyfully shatter between the teeth, exuding a sweet flavor. This sweetness is not cloyingly rich but rather a modest sweetness, harmoniously blending with the corn's inherent fragrance.
As the chewing progresses, the popcorn gradually softens, intertwining with saliva, spreading multiple levels of fragrances in the mouth, leaving an irresistible aftertaste. In the winter streets, old-fashioned popcorn often appears in bustling markets or school entrances. While shopping or picking up their children from school, people are invariably drawn to this familiar scent, unable to resist buying a bag, enjoying it while walking, warming both their hands and mouths.
Today, the modern popcorn in cinemas comes in a variety of flavors like butter黄油(huáng yóu), chocolate, and others, packaged beautifully. They are rapidly produced in modern popcorn machines. While delicious, they seem to lack the traditional manual craftsmanship and the lively atmosphere of the streets found in old-fashioned popcorn.
黄油 (huáng yóu), noun, butter
Examples:
- I need some butter to make the cake.
我需要一些黄油来做蛋糕。
wǒ xū yào yī xiē huáng yóu lái zuò dàn gāo 。 - The bread tastes better with butter.
面包涂上黄油更好吃。
miàn bāo tú shàng huáng yóu gèng hǎo chī 。
Though old-fashioned popcorn lacks the glamorous packaging of modern snacks, it boasts a unique charm. It is a simple and pure delicacy, carrying the warmth of nostalgic memories. If you ever have the chance to stroll the streets of China during winter, be sure to seek out the presence of old-fashioned popcorn and personally experience the unique taste and joy it brings.
