BEST Stovetop Popcorn Recipe

Step 1

Heat the oil in a large saucepan with 3 popcorn kernels over medium-high heat until shimmering. Watch for the kernels to pop, as soon as they do, the oil is ready (quickly remove the 3 popcorns, so they don’t burn).

Step 2

Add the rest of the popcorn kernels and cover the pan. Shake the pan to make sure the kernels are in one single layer. Cook, covered, over medium-high heat, listening for the kernels to all begin to pop, gently shake the pan back and forth a couple times. (It helps to keep a small opening at the top to allow for venting so the popcorn does not turn soggy).

Step 3

Once the popping has slowed down to one pop every few seconds, the popcorn is ready (it helps if your saucepan lid is glass like this one so you can see through).

Step 4

Remove the lid and transfer the popcorn to a large bowl. Immediately drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and season generously with Kosher salt and other seasonings of your choice (I used the za’atar, Aleppo, lime zest). Toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings to your liking. (More popcorn seasoning options in the notes).