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Homemade Popcorn

With this recipe, you will make a delicious, homemade bowl of popcorn. Use some of your favorite toppings to make it even tastier!
Print Recipe
A glass jar filled with freshly popped popcorn sitting on a wooden surface, with scattered unpopped kernels and a metal measuring cup nearby.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:3 minutes
1 minute
Total Time:9 minutes

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot preferably with a heavy bottom
  • 1 Large bowl
  • 1 Spoon or spatula

Ingredients

  • ½ cup Popcorn kernels
  • 2 tbsp Coconut oil

Instructions

  • Add two tablespoons of coconut oil and 2–3 popcorn kernels to a large pot with a thick bottom.
  • Set the pot over medium heat and cover it with a lid.
  • Once the test kernels pop, remove the pot from the heat and add ½ a cup of popcorn kernels.
  • Gently shake the pot to evenly coat the kernels in oil.
  • Return the pot to the heat with the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
  • When the kernels start popping rapidly, carefully shake the pot every 10–15 seconds to prevent burning.
  • Once the popping slows to just a few pops per second, remove the pot from the heat.
  • Give it a final shake, then transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.
  • If you'd like to add flavorings (salt, melted butter, spices, or powdered sugar), now’s the time to toss them in while it’s still warm!

Notes

  • I often use extra virgin coconut oil, but every time I do, Tom comments that it tastes a bit like coconut. So if you’re not a fan of that subtle coconut flavor in your popcorn, go with refined coconut oil or another neutral-tasting option like avocado oil. Just make sure to choose an oil that can handle high heat without burning!
  • If your pan starts to smoke, keep the lid on and turn off the heat immediately. Let it sit on the stovetop until the smoke stops. Whatever you do, don’t remove the lid or add water—this can cause the hot oil to splatter and may lead to serious burns or a kitchen fire. In addition to being a passionate home cook, I’m also a chemical engineer—trust me, you do not want to pour water on burning oil!
Servings: 1 bowl