Making popcorn in the microwave is extremely easy and free from any additives. You can prepare them with your preferred toppings on a plate or paper bag.
Moreover, making them in the microwave is far cheaper than buying a processed packet of popcorn from the store. In addition, you can add the type and quantity of seasonings as per your choice.
Different Ways To Make Popcorn
Classic Popcorn In A Bowl
Ingredients
- ¼ cup of corn kernels
- A microwave-safe bowl with a lid
- 1tsp Butter/Oil/Ghee
- Salt (as per your taste)
Method
- Add one tablespoon of butter to a sizable microwave-safe bowl.
- Instead of butter, you can also use oil or ghee if you don’t prefer your popcorn with butter or if butter is not available.
- Microwave the butter for seconds to allow it to melt.
- Add the ¼ cup corn kernels and stir so that the kernels get completely mixed with butter/oil/ghee.
- Add salt to the kernels. If you are using butter then add less salt. But if you're using ghee or oil, you will need to add more salt.
- Cover the bowl with the lid and microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. Time may vary depending on the type of microwave and bowl.
- Carefully take the bowl out with the help of gloves from the microwave, sprinkle the seasonings, and serve them hot.
Microwavable Packet Popcorn
Ingredients
- A packet of microwavable corn kernels
Steps
- Take the packet of corn kernels and simply place it in the microwave. The seasonings and tastemakers are already added to it. Note: Avoid purchasing loose kernels in a container.
- Microwave them on high for 3 minutes. However, keep an eye on them as they take very less time to cook.
- If there are more than 2 seconds between “pops” then turn off the microwave. Every microwave is unique, they all have multiple energy settings. The popcorn might burn if you do not turn off the microwave as soon as popping slows down.
- Open the bag carefully to avoid steam, and serve them after cooling.
Paper Bag Popcorn
Ingredients
- A packet of corn kernels
- A large or small brown paper bag
- 1 tsp Butter/Vegetable Oil/Ghee (Optional)
- Salt (as per your taste)
Steps
- Fill the brown paper bag with the corn kernels. Note: Fill 1/2 cup of kernels in a big paper bag or ⅓ cup of kernels in a smaller bag.
- Add butter or ghee or vegetable oil.
- Fold the paper bag twice to pack it.
- Place the bag and microwave it for 3.5 minutes on high. Pay attention to the bag after two minutes. Once you notice 2 seconds lapse between popping, turn off the microwave to avoid burning.
- Carefully remove the paper bag and allow the popcorn to cool before you open the bag.
- Pour the popcorn into the serving bowl and mix it with the seasonings of your choice.
Toppings
Here are some toppings you can use in your popcorn
- Sea salt with melted chocolate
- Butter with a sprinkle of cayenne, salt, and chilli powder
- Coconut (Toasted)
- Chili lime
- Sugar with cinnamon
- Melted peanut butter with honey and sugar
- Caramel
- Butter with buffalo sauce
Tips for Making Popcorn in Microwave
Some tips to get perfect popcorn using a microwave:
- 3 tablespoons of corn kernels are equal to 7.5 cups of popcorn. Therefore, ensure you use a suitable bowl or paper bag.
- Turn off the microwave when you hear 2 seconds of pause between pops.
- It is very likely that some kernels may not pop, do not increase the timer. It can burn the popcorn or spoil the taste.
- Be mindful of the steam when you open the bowl or bag. Always use oven gloves while removing the bag or bowl from the microwave.
How To Store Microwave Popcorn?
- Microwave popcorn can be stored for up to 10 days. A few extra tips to ensure your popcorn stays fresh are:
- Allow the popcorn to cool properly before storing them to avoid sogginess.
- Don’t add butter, salt, or seasonings when it’s hot, as it can make the popcorn soggy. Add toppings before serving them.
So here’s how you can prepare microwave popcorn with just three, easy-to-find ingredients. Of course, you can adjust the recipe to suit your flavor preferences and what you have on hand. Why wait then? Try any of these recipes using a microwave and enjoy movie dates or lazy evenings with homemade popcorn and your loved one.