How to Make Popcorn

Popcorn is delicious, especially when paired with a couch and your favorite movie. Some people love the convenience of the microwave versions, and others swear by the stovetop method. Here are three ways to make popcorn at home, depending on your preferences.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Quick and Cheap DIY Paper Method

If you don't want to shell out money for pre-packaged popcorn, you can bag it and save yourself $3.03 per pound, according to Squawkfox.com. This is also a way to make fat-free popcorn. You'll just need bags, bulk kernels, and the seasoning(s) of your choice.

1
Buy some brown paper bags (lunch bags), but make sure the package is labeled as being microwave-safe. Bags not meant for use in the microwave can catch on fire.
2
Pour 1/4 to 1/3 cup kernels to the bag.

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3
Fold the bag over twice. Do not use staples.
4
Place the bag on its side in your microwave.
5
Cook on high for several minutes. This time varies, depending on your microwave. Do not leave the bag unattended. Stop the microwave when the pops are about 2 seconds apart, and remove the bag from the oven.
6
Pour the popcorn into a bowl and top it with butter and/or seasonings.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Store-Bought Microwave Popcorn Method

1
Buy your favorite popcorn.
2
Follow the instructions on the bag, which typically recommend the following:
- Massage the bag with your fingertips to break up the mixture before placing it in a microwave.
- Set the microwave for a few seconds longer than recommended, listen carefully, and stop the microwave when the pops are about 2 seconds apart.
- Remove the popcorn from the bag immediately for flavor. Open the bag away from you (the steam is hot), then serve and enjoy!

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Old-Fashioned Stovetop Method

Popcorn made on a stovetop tastes great, and it doesn't take as much time as you might think. Keep in mind that cooking with oil can be dangerous! Kids should not try this method without supervision.

1
Use a pan with a lid, preferably a lid with holes to allow steam to escape during popping. This keeps the popcorn from becoming chewy.
2
Add 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the pan (suggested on your package of kernels).
3
Turn the heat to medium and add two kernels to the pan. When those kernels pop, the oil is hot enough to add the rest.
4
Add the amount of kernels suggested on the bag to the pan and cover them. If the lid does not have holes, keep it slightly ajar.
5
Gently shake the pan to keep the kernels from burning.
6
Keep shaking while the kernels pop. Once the popping slows to a stop, turn off the heat.
7
Wait a second for any final pops, and then remove the lid away from you to avoid steam.
8
Immediately pour the popcorn into a bowl, add your seasoning of choice, and enjoy!

Community Q&A

Question

What kind of oil do I use?

Community Answer

You can use any type of liquid oil. Keep in mind that some oils are flavored, such as olive oil, while other oils have no flavor at all, such as vegetable oil.
Question

When should I pour my popcorn?

Community Answer

Popcorn cools down pretty quickly. Pour it into a bowl and season it once it's stopped popping completely.
Question

Can I use butter instead of oil?

Community Answer

Yes, but use unsalted butter if you don't want a salty flavor.