The Best Popcorn

How to Make

The Best Popcorn

You have to start with the best variety of corn kernels and you can usually bet that smaller is better. Our favorites include (in order):

• tiny white
• lady finger
• tiny red

For a good source try Amish Country Popcorn out of Indiana. You can order it online or go through a retailer close to you. Notice that the variety names are "tiny," not "small." If you can't find any of these tiny, hulless varieties and are just buying from the grocery store, I recommend white popcorn.

Next, you need non-hydrogenated coconut oil. If you don't have coconut oil (or don't like it) you can try lard, avocado oil or peanut oil (again my preferences are listed in order.) My husband also likes to use bacon grease ocasionally for popping. - We just agree to disagree on this point.

Next, you need a whirly popper. You can buy these online. The aluminum models will cost $20 - $30 and you can find stainless steel poppers for  $40 and up. You can use a deep saucepan and lid but better and more consistent results come with a whirly popper. If you are serious about popcorn, you'll want to invest in a whirly type popper!

Instructions for Popping Popcorn

1. Start by melting a generous tablespoon of coconut oil in the popper over medium low heat. When the pan is hot and the oil melted, add 1/2 cup popcorn kernels. Stir and shake until the kernels are completely coated with oil and spread evenly across the bottom of the pan.
2. Transfer the pan to a medium high heat and stir and shake while the corn heats up. You don't need to be too aggressive about this, but do not leave the popper unattended!
3. When you hear the kernels begin to pop, turn the heat up to high. At this point, stir the corn continuously while it pops completely. As soon as the popping ceases remove the pan from the heat.

Dump the popped corn into a large bowl for serving. Return the popper to a medium low burner. 

In the warm popper melt 1/2 stick real butter. When the butter is completely melted, pour about 1/3 of it over the popped corn. Toss or stir the popcorn to incorporate the butter. Repeat 2 more times with remaining butter. 

Finally, top the popcorn with salt. Use a good quality salt and try different types. My favorite for popcorn is a french salt call Fleur de Sel. You'll find the flavor changes a little with different kinds of salt.

You can also add other toppings to change up the flavor! Try different combinations of things you already like.

Popcorn Toppings

Fresh Ground Pepper

Nutritional Yeast

Soy sauce or Braggs Amino Acids

Powdered or Shredded Cheese

Dried Herbs

Garlic or Onion Powder