A home popcorn technique refined over five years, showing how to pop kernels evenly without burning them using a stovetop pot, then coat them perfectly with spray oil and seasoning.
Popcorn kernelsEnough to cover the bottom of the pan~1/3 cupsest.
Neutral oil (spray)High-heat neutral oil spray, used to coat kernels and popcorn before seasoning~2-3 sprayest.
Nutritional yeast1 cup
Kosher salt¼ cups
Garlic powder1 tbsp
Onion powder1 tbsp
Paprika1 tbsp
Steps
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1
Choose a heavy-duty pan such as stainless steel or cast iron with a well-fitting lid for even heat retention.
2
Preheat the pan over medium-high heat for about 2–3 minutes.
3
Pour in enough popcorn kernels to cover the bottom of the pan; note that kernels need some moisture to pop well.
4
Spray a light, even coat of neutral oil over the kernels and toss to coat them evenly.
5
Heat the kernels uncovered while continuously shaking the pan until they start popping, about 1 minute.
6
As soon as popping picks up (before it gets out of control), cover the pan with the lid.
7
Keep moving the covered pan continuously to prevent burning, and turn off the heat once the popping sound slows down to almost nothing.
8
Pour all the popped popcorn into a large mixing bowl; the pan should be nearly free of burnt residue.
9
Combine the nutritional yeast, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a spice grinder or blender, and blend until it becomes a fine powder for the best, most even coating.
10
Spray a layer of oil onto the popcorn, sprinkle on some seasoning, and toss; repeat this spray-sprinkle-toss process a few times until every piece is evenly coated with seasoning.