No Microwave? No Problem. Here’s How To Make Stovetop Popcorn
When you think of making popcorn, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the microwave — but what if you don’t have one? Or maybe you just don’t like the taste of microwave popcorn? Don’t worry, you don’t have to give up on popcorn. With a little know-how, you can make delicious stovetop popcorn in no time.
In this post, we’ll show you how to make the tastiest popcorn using only a pot and a few basic ingredients. You can even customize your popcorn with a variety of seasonings like cinnamon or garlic to get creative in the kitchen. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. So, let’s get popping!
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Making popcorn without a microwave is easy, and with the right ingredients, you can enjoy homemade stovetop popcorn in no time! Whether you’re making this treat for a cozy movie night or just as an afternoon snack, here’s what you need to make a delicious batch.
Popcorn Kernels
For this recipe, you need about 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels, which will yield about 4-5 cups of popped popcorn.
Pot
Make sure to select the right pot for your stovetop popcorn needs. A smaller pot will work, but a medium-sized pot is best for popping all your kernels without too many unpopped ones left over. The lid should also fit tightly onto the pot so that all the popcorn pops evenly.
Oil
Your popcorn kernels will need some sort of oil for better results. This can be any type of cooking oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, or even flavored oils like garlic oil or truffle oil! Just make sure to use enough oil to coat all your kernels once they’re in the pot.
Salt
The last ingredient you’ll need is some salt. This is essential in order to bring out the flavor in your popcorn, so don’t skip this step!
Preparing the Popcorn
Begin by measuring out 1/3 cup of popcorn kernels into a bowl or container. This amount should be enough to cover the bottom of the pot completely when poured out.
Once you’ve added your desired amount of oil into the pot (ideally about 2 tablespoons), turn on the stove to medium-high heat. Let it heat up until it begins to shimmer and ripple on its surface. Then, add in your measured popcorn kernels and stir until all kernels are coated with oil.
Cooking the Popcorn
Depending on your stovetop, cooking popcorn between medium and medium-high heat works best without burning any unpopped kernels for too long! Monitor and adjust its heat level as needed continually throughout cooking.
For optimal results, it’s important to continuously shake the pot while the kernels pop to prevent any unpopped kernels from burning. Gently shake and swirl the pot around as frequently as possible while keeping an eye on its heat level at all times. If it begins smoking or smells like it’s burning, quickly reduce its heat.
Once your cooked popcorn starts slowing down significantly in popping (about 2 minutes), turn off the heat altogether while continuing to shake it one last time. Scoop out any remaining unpopped kernels before transferring the cooked popcorn onto a bowl or plate. Add any flavors or spices you like and voilà — your stovetop popcorn is now ready!
Conclusion
Making delicious, homemade popcorn without a microwave is possible, and with the right know-how and ingredients, you can create the perfect snack for yourself and your friends or family. Not only is stovetop popcorn easy to make and customize, but it also a more health-conscious option than traditional microwave popcorn. With the tips provided here, you’ll be able to make this tasty treat without any problems!