Photo Credit: Nicol Jones
Who doesn’t love popcorn? In our house, it’s the only snack both our kids will always agree on. “Popcorn-and-a-movie” night happens at least once a week around here.
In search of the most delicious popcorn, I’ve bought almost every pre-popped and microwave variety on the market. Although many of them are awesome, the good ones can be pricey or full of added sugar. The truth is, it’s just not that difficult to make at home.
I’ve experimented with popcorn poppers and the stovetop method. While many people have success, I consistently burn it both ways. Nothing is worse than the smell of burnt popcorn in your house – it lingers for days!
My new tried-and-true method is the lunch bag version. It’s super easy, and the kids enjoy helping put it together. The bonus? They can’t burn themselves on the popcorn popper or the stove, because it’s done in the microwave! You’ll wonder why you haven’t always made it this way.
How to make delicious, homemade microwave popcorn – in a simple paper bag!
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 tsp. vegetable oil
- Salt – I probably use almost a tablespoon
- 1 paper lunch bag
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the popcorn kernels and vegetable oil in a small bowl. Don’t bother with more than 1/3 of a cup; there isn’t enough room in the lunch bag for it all to pop.
Photo Credit: Nicol Jones
Step 2: Pour the kernels into the lunch bag and add your salt. At this point, if you want a sweeter, kettle corn-style popcorn, you can add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Fold the top of the lunch bag over a couple times, and then shake it carefully. You will start to see some of the oil soak through the bottom of the lunch bag.
Photo Credit: Nicol Jones
Step 3: Lay a paper towel down in your microwave and set the bag on top. Microwave on high for 2 ½ minutes, but I suggest taking it out with 30 seconds left – it can be the difference between having a few more kernels and potentially burning it.
Photo Credit: Nicol Jones
Step 4: Take out the bag and lay it on its side. Tear it open and taste – at this point you can add additional salt or other popcorn seasonings. Grab your favorite flick and enjoy!
Note: DO NOT use a plastic bag to microwave popcorn. (You laugh…but trust us…this line is a must… 😉 )
Photo Credit: Nicol Jones
Come on…you want to put this on your Pinterest board, right? Your kids will love you!!
Homemade Microwave Popcorn - In a Paper Bag!
Ingredients
- 1/3 c. Popcorn kernels
- 1 tsp. Vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 Paper lunch bag
Instructions
-
Mix the popcorn kernels and vegetable oil in a small bowl. Don’t bother with more than 1/3 of a cup; there isn’t enough room in the lunch bag for it all to pop.
-
Pour the kernels into the lunch bag and add your salt. At this point, if you want a sweeter, kettle corn-style popcorn, you can add 1 tablespoon of sugar. Fold the top of the lunch bag over a couple times, and then shake it carefully. You will start to see some of the oil soak through the bottom of the lunch bag.
-
Lay a paper towel down in your microwave and set the bag on top. Microwave on high for 2 ½ minutes, but I suggest taking it out with 30 seconds left – it can be the difference between having a few more kernels and potentially burning it.
-
Take out the bag and lay it on its side. Tear it open and taste – at this point you can add additional salt or other popcorn seasonings. Grab your favorite flick and enjoy!
photo from n. jones
Nicol Jones
Nicol is an expert in visual communications and social media strategies for a variety of clients. Her experience in web and publication design – along with skills in project organization, customer service and event management – are why many point to her as an invaluable resource to launch their projects and events.
An avid gardener and food aficionado, Nicol is a busy mom and an excellent cook, too!