Air Popped Popcorn

Learn how to make air popped popcorn on the stovetop OR microwave. There’s no popcorn maker, no oil, and no butter needed. It’s the perfect healthy snack!

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 2

Total Time 3

Servings servings

Calories 77kcal

Author Arman Liew

Ingredients

1/2 cup popcorn kernels

For the stovetop method

2 tablespoons oil

Instructions

Stovetop method

Add the oil to a large saucepan and add two kernels to it, cover it, and place it over medium heat. Let the oil heat up for 1-2 minutes, or until the kernels have popped. Once they have popped, remove the saucepan off the heat.
Add the remaining kernels and shake the saucepan so the kernels distribute evenly. Add the lid back on and place it back over medium heat. Let the kernels pop and once the popping is less consistent, remove the saucepan off the heat and transfer the freshly popped popcorn into a bowl.

Microwave method

Add the popcorn kernels to a brown paper bag. Carefully fold the top twice, to ensure it does not open up during the popping process.
Place the bag in the microwave and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until the popping becomes inconsistent. Remove the bag from the microwave and let it sit for 30 seconds, for any extra kernels to pop. Transfer it into a bowl and season.

Notes

Nutritional information refers to the microwave and air popper methods. Using the stovetop version will add an extra 50 calories per serving.

TO STORE: Leftover popcorn can be stored in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to one week.

Flavor variations

As mentioned earlier, air popped popcorn is like a blank canvas, so here are some fun flavor ideas to try:

Butter. Place the popcorn in a ziplock bag and drizzle melted butter and salt. Give the bag a good shake, then transfer to a serving bowl.
Caramel. Make a simple caramel sauce and cover the popcorn with it. Bake it in the oven, stirring regularly, until golden and crispy.
Nacho cheese. Add nacho seasoning from the packet (available in the spice aisle) or add cheddar seasoning with smoked paprika, garlic salt, and onion.
Salt and vinegar. Whisk together melted butter with vinegar. Add popcorn to a large mixing bowl and slowly drizzle the vinegar mix over it, stirring regularly. Sprinkle with salt before serving.
Kettle corn. Add popcorn to a bag, then drizzle melted butter throughout. Give it a shake, then add salt and sugar and shake once more.
Parmesan. Add grated parmesan cheese.

Nutrition