LostCarPark's Journal

Although still afflicted by the cold, on Sunday I braved the elements to see The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.

Overall I found it a very enjoyable movie, and I think if you like Tolkien's universe at all, you won't regret seeing it. However, I do feel it's a little longer than it needs to be, and I question the wisdom of splitting the book into three parts rather than two.

( Spoilers behind the cut... )

I do think the movie could be shorter by at least half an hour without losing anything of significance.

However, I'm thoroughly looking forward to parts 2 and 3.

Microwave popcorn has grown in popularity over the years, but it is easy to get wrong. There are a few tricks that can guarantee perfect results every time. The ideal result is for all the kernels to be popped, with none of them burned or overcooked. You need a microwave with a rotary plate - fortunately very few don't these days. If yours doesn't, I'm afraid you're stuck with a pot and some oil, or you could buy one of the hot air poppers. Or a new microwave.

1. Preheat the microwave. Put a glass of water in on maximum for 2-3 mins until it starts bubbling. Be careful taking it out as it will be hot.

2. Fold the corners of the bag towards the center before putting it in the microwave. This is to stop it from catching as it turns around. If you have a really big microwave, this can probably be skipped/

3. Set the microwave for about five minutes, Watch the bag as it turns to make sure a corner doesn't get caught or you will get hot spots and burned popcorn. You need to keep an eye on it as the bag will change shape and may unexpectedly get stuck.

4. Once the popcorn starts popping, listen carefully. At first there will only be a few pops, then rapid bursts, gradually slowing down towards the end. Once is slows to a few seconds between pops, it's time to stop. Better to have a few unpopped kernels that the whole lot burned.

5. Shake out into a bowl and a add butter if such takes your fancy.

I discovered the preheating secret when I was making several batches and the second came out better than the first. I'm not entirely sure why it works, but it does.

The perfect complement to a good movie.