Perfect Stovetop Popcorn

Making popcorn on the stovetop is a simple and rewarding process that delivers crunchy, delicious results every time. This method creates perfectly popped kernels with a light, crispy texture, and allows you to control how much salt or butter to add, making it a healthier option than microwave popcorn. Whether you’re making it for a movie night or as a quick snack, stovetop popcorn is a classic treat that’s easy to master.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup vegetable or coconut oil
• ½ cup popcorn kernels (yellow or white)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the Oil: Pour the oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot with a lid. Make sure the oil covers the bottom of the pot in an even layer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Test with Kernels: To know when the oil is hot enough, place 3 kernels of popcorn into the center of the pot. Cover with the lid and wait for them to pop.
3. Add the Kernels: Once the 3 kernels pop, remove them from the pot with a slotted spoon and discard. Then, pour in the ½ cup of popcorn kernels, ensuring they are spread out evenly in a single layer.
4. Rest the Kernels: Cover the pot with the lid and remove it from the heat for 30 seconds. This allows the kernels to reach an even temperature, ensuring that they all pop at the same time once back on the heat.
5. Pop the Corn: Return the pot to the heat. The popcorn will start popping quickly and all at once. Once it begins, gently shake the pot back and forth on the burner, making sure to leave a small crack in the lid to let steam escape. This helps the popcorn stay crispy rather than soggy.
6. Finish and Serve: When the popping slows down to several seconds between pops, remove the pot from the heat and immediately pour the popcorn into a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt to taste and, if desired, drizzle with melted butter.

Tips & Variations:

• Oil Choices: Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor that many enjoy, but vegetable oil works just as well for a neutral taste. You can also experiment with avocado oil or grapeseed oil for high-heat cooking.
• Crispier Popcorn: Leaving a slight opening in the lid during popping helps release steam, ensuring your popcorn stays light and crisp rather than soggy.
• Even Popping: Letting the kernels rest off the heat for 30 seconds before returning to the stove helps ensure all kernels pop at nearly the same time, reducing the number of unpopped kernels.
• Flavor Ideas: For extra flavor, add different seasonings such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor), or even cinnamon and sugar for a sweet version.
• Storage: If you make more popcorn than you can eat, store leftovers in an airtight container. Popcorn stays fresh for a day or two if kept sealed.

With just a few basic ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll have a bowl of fresh, flavorful popcorn perfect for any occasion. It’s healthier, customizable, and more fun than store-bought options!