How to Cook Microwave Popcorn in a Pan

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The only difference between microwaveable popcorn and whole kernels is the bag. If your microwave does not work, you can still make popcorn in a pan. This will work for both microwave popcorn and plain popcorn kernels.

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Making Microwave Popcorn In a Pan

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Things You'll Need

  • Heavy lidded 5-qt. or larger saucepan

  • Vegetable oil

  • Salt (optional)

  • Melted butter (optional)

  • Potholders

1. Coat pan with oil

Pour enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan with an even coating.

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2. Add the popcorn

Open the bag of microwave popcorn and dump the kernels into the saucepan. Add just enough corn to fill the pan in a single layer. If your popcorn bag has more, save it for a second popping.

3. Heat at medium

Turn the heat to medium heat and cover the pan.

4. Get ready for popping

Listen as the pan, oil and popcorn heat up. Using potholders, place one hand on the lid of the pan and the other on the handle when you hear the popcorn begin to pop.

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5. Shake, shake, shake

Shake the pan across the burner of your stovetop while the popcorn is popping. Do not stop shaking or the kernels will burn. This popping process should take around a minute, depending on the brand and type of popcorn.

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6. Take it off the heat

Remove the pan from the heat once you no longer hear popcorn kernels pop or the popping slows significantly.

7. Season (if desired) and serve

Remove the lid from the pan and serve the popcorn. The flavorings and oils from the bag should have already flavored the popcorn in the pan. Optionally add salt and melted butter to taste.

Tip

Oils with a high smoke point, like peanut or canola oil, can improve popping success.

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