Is there anything more iconic to movie night than popcorn? Not in my book. And when I’m getting ready for a cozy night in, stovetop popcorn is my go-to. Fresh, crispy, warm, and whatever flavors I want! In this case, I use some Gingered Pear Seasoning, and it’s perfect! Want to know how to make stovetop popcorn, too? Keep reading!

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How to Make Stovetop Popcorn

The reason I’m so over the moon about stovetop popcorn is twofold. First, stovetop popcorn is completely customizable. I can add whatever I want to it, and leave out whatever I want! Neither movie theater popcorn nor microwave popcorn can boast that!

Secondly, it’s about taste! Or texture…or…something. Microwave popcorn always leaves a weird film in my mouth that I don’t like. I’ve tried all different kinds and they all seem to do it. Maybe you don’t have that issue!

But regardless, stovetop popcorn doesn’t take much more time than microwave, though it is hands-on time. Easy stuff though! Just heat some oil in a big pan or pot. I recommend a neutral oil that can stand up to heat. Grapeseed, avocado, or refined coconut oil are all good choices (unrefined coconut oil works just as well if you don’t mind the coconut flavor in your popcorn).

Toss a couple kernels into the oil while it’s heating up. When they pop, you know the oil is hot enough, and you can add the rest of the kernels. Don’t forget to put the lid on! Then simply shake the pan gently over the heat while the popcorn pops.

Once the popping slows to a second to two between pops, you can remove it from the heat. Allow it to sit a minute before you take the lid off since a few more kernels may still pop.

How to Microwave Popcorn in a Paper Bag

Yes, this actually works! I was blown away when I tried it! All you do is add a couple tablespoons of kernels to a brown paper bag (like a lunch bag), fold the top over a few times, and microwave for a few minutes, just like the kind you get at the store. No oil needed!

Is Popcorn Good for You?

In a word, YES! But it depends. Popcorn itself is a really low calorie, high fiber food, with a good amount of vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. This makes it great to help fill you up on less, and keep you satisfied longer. Great for heart health!

Popcorn starts to become an unhealthy indulgence when we slather it in melted butter and salt and eat it in a giant tub with free refills. Microwave popcorn fares a bit better, but it often still is high in salt, with varying amounts of butter (i.e. saturated fat and extra calories).

So in that vein, I recommend making it yourself on the stove, or microwaving in a brown bag, and adding your own seasonings! Plus your flavor options are limitless that way!