Popcorn (Stove Top)

LonghornMama's Note:

Back in the Dark Ages when I was a little girl there was no microwave popcorn. There weren't even microwaves (gasp)! Mom actually used to make popcorn on the stove. Here's how, courtesy of the Fannie Farmer Cookbook.

• Total Time: 15 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 4

Yield: 3.0 quarts

• 3 tablespoons oil (NOT butter)
• 1/2 cup popcorn
• 3 -4 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
• salt

Directions:

1. Put the oil in a 4 quart heavy pot and let it heat over medium heat for 30 seconds.
2. Stir in the kernels, turning with a spoon so that they are evenly covered with oil, then spread them in one layer on the bottom of the pot. (I just shake them around a bit).
3. Cover the pot, leaving a small space at the edge for escaping steam. As soon as the first kernel pops, move the pot gently and continuously back and forth over medium-high heat until the popping stops.
4. Turn into a warm bowl. Toss with melted butter, if desired, and salt to taste.

Reviews

[Aaaadriaaaannn]

I've done this before and it is really good. Lately, however, I have been adding butter in with the oil. It browns and adds a nutty and buttery flavor. Since it mixes with the oil it isn't as susceptible to burning as it is by itself but there is definitely still a risk of burnage. So, be extra sure to keep an eye on it! *Note that browning the butter does impart a different flavor than simply melting it.

[CookingBlues]

Now this takes me back to being a little girl! Momma made popcorn like this before a good movie came on TV (the Wizard of Oz was my favorite!). My husband and I make this popcorn on our home "Movie night" too: it's become our tradition. The microwave could NEVER make popcorn this GOOD, and this is much cheaper too! I use canola oil with just a bit of butter for flavor, then just some salt. Thanks for sharing a classic. It's simple recipes like these we need to pass on to the next generation.

[Dom & Gigi' s Mom]

LOVE THIS. This the only way we make popcorn at our house now. Smells like a movie theater, but not greasy. Light and fluffy but not as tough as air-popped. YUM-YUM