Healthy Popcorn

Would you like a snack that's easy, low-calorie, fun, and healthy? Then you want homemade popcorn!

Do NOT do microwave popcorn anymore. For one, doing it on the stove is so simple and healthier for your wallet too. But also there's bad stuff in that microwave bag. Really bad stuff (number 3 on this list).

As you can see, our popcorn went a little overboard. Whoops. Next time we'll use only 1/2 cup instead of a whole cup. What's great is the types of experimenting you can do as well. But more on that after the recipe.

Ingredients

1/2 cup popcorn kernels
oil (preferably something that doesn't impart a lot of taste - like canola)
- alternatively, use a spray
salt to taste

Directions

1. In a large pot, add a teeny weeny bit of oil so that you almost barely cover the bottom when it's heated.
2. Put 3 kernels in the pot, set on high and cover with lid (important).
3. When all 3 have popped, add the rest of the kernels because now it's hot enough.
4. Let stand for a minute or two, shaking periodically.
5. Add 2-3 pinches of salt evenly over the top, cover, and shake constantly until done.

* note: when there is more than 5 seconds between pops, it's done. Remember, you want popped corn, not burnt corn

Wasn't that easy? Want variations? Well this will make it so it's not quite as healthy, but I won't tell anyone if you won't.

Kettle corn - add about a tablespoon of sugar over the top when you add the salt. Mmm sweet and salty.
Caramel corn - if you add a thin drizzle of honey, it'll become sticky, messy, but oh so caramely.
Peppermint popcorn - crush up some candy canes as fine as you can, and sprinkle on top.

This list goes on and on. Try adding cinnamon or pumpkin spice or any dried seasonings you might have around the house. Did someone say spicy? Crushed red pepper popcorn. Hmm...