How To Make Popcorn On The Stovetop

Making popcorn at home is quite easy and fun.

Growing up as a kid, my mom and I would make popcorn in a big pot on the stove. I was always fascinated with the way the kernels erratically popped all over the place. On many occasions we would get a little creative with some crazy toppings too. Those were good times.

So, I'll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to make popcorn the same way I was taught, along with pictures to help illustrate the process.

There are a few different ways to make popcorn. The following guide will show you how to pop popcorn on your stove top in a pot without the need for an expensive popcorn maker.

You will need:

Large pot with a lid
Oil or Butter (optional)
Popcorn Kernels
Bowl or Bag
Your favorite Seasonings (optional)

The oil, butter or margarine are optional. The kernels will pop without it, but it does help to infuse a little flavor. You can use just about any kind of oil you want to, but coconut oil or canola oil seems to be the best for the job.

In the following demonstration, I am using Orville Redenbacher's Popping & Topping, Buttery Flavor Popcorn Oil for both popping the kernels and as the topping.

Seasonings are optional as well. But I find that a little bit of salt and butter topping adds just the right amount of flavor from what otherwise would be a bland tasting batch of popcorn.

10 Simple Steps To Making Popcorn

1. Set the pot on the stove burner and turn on to medium-high to high heat.

2. Add just enough oil into the pot to fully cover the bottom, or about 1/16 of an inch, but no more that 1/8 of an inch.

3. Drop a couple or so kernels in to the pot. Wait a couple minutes until the first kernel pops.

4. Add enough kernels to form a single layer in the bottom of the pot.

5. Place the lid on top of the pot.

6. With your hand firmly holding the lid in place, move the pot back and forth as the kernels pop. This will help with even heat distribution and help prevent the popped popcorn kernels from burning.

I like to take it away from the heat when the popcorn has nearly reached the top of the pot, and/or when the popping has become less frequent. Otherwise the popcorn will burn, even the ones sitting on the sides.

Not only does it smell gross, it tastes nasty.

7. Once the popcorn has been popped, immediately remove the pot from the heat source.

8. Transfer the popped popcorn to a large bowl or a bag.

9. Add any toppings and seasonings that you want. Cover and shake for a few seconds until all of the popcorn has been completely covered.

10. Grab your favorite drink and enjoy your popcorn!

5 Easy Hacks For Removing Burnt Popcorn Smell

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