Cooking popcorn the old-fashioned way is not only more entertaining than cooking it in the microwave, but far less expensive. While, at the time of publication, microwave popcorn can cost $3 to $5 for a box with three or four packages, a small bag of popcorn kernels costs around $2, and can provide six to eight large batches of popcorn.
Benefits
Making popcorn at home benefits more than your wallet -- it can benefit your health. Plain popcorn contains little fat, no cholesterol and only 30 to 40 calories per popped cup, depending on preparation. It's also a whole grain, which makes it a good source of fiber. Microwave popcorn often contains added preservatives, as well as excess salt, oil and sugar. Choosing homemade popcorn over microwave popcorn gives you control over these ingredients. In addition, it allows you to add your own flavors to every batch.
Stove Top
The most inexpensive way to make popcorn is on the stove, in a pot you already own. Pour a tablespoon of oil into a large pot with high sides and a smooth, flat bottom. Set the burner to medium high, then pour popcorn seeds into the oil until they coat the bottom in a single layer. Top the pot with a lid. Popping corn produces steam, which can result in soggy kernels. If the lid has a hole for the steam to escape, fit it snugly on the pot. If not, leave it slightly ajar. To ensure that the maximum number of kernels pop, pick the pot off the burner and swirl the popcorn around periodically as it cooks. Once the popcorn has popped, pour it into a bowl and add your seasonings.
Air Popped
Air-popped popcorn contains fewer calories and fat than oil-popped popcorn. In addition, it only requires a one-time investment in a an air popper, which, over time, will pay for itself when it comes to the money you'll save over microwave popcorn. You can buy an air popper in many stores that sell small kitchen appliances. Most home air poppers work by heating the popcorn seeds internally and then pouring the popped kernels out through a spout.
Tips
When pan-cooking popcorn, add salt in with the oil before the kernels pop. This will help distribute salt evenly throughout the kernels. Don't add other seasonings, however, as they may burn. Seasoning doesn't stick well to air-popped popcorn or pan-cooked popcorn that has no oil added after popping. Toss the popcorn in melted butter along with your seasonings for a special treat, or olive oil for a more-healthful snack. Use any seasonings you like; good choices include Parmesan cheese, oregano and garlic powder; Cajun seasoning; chili powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper and garlic salt; lemon-pepper seasoning; or store-bought popcorn seasoning.
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