Quick Snack: Popcorn

Popcorn is one of my favorite snacks. However, I am not talking about microwave popcorn. I am talking about the popcorn you make on the stove. Compared to microwave popcorn it is cheaper and healthier. Mainly - it's cheap. One 16 oz. bag of unpopped kernels should last you practically forever.

Things you'll need:
1 large pot with a tight-fitting lid
1 large serving bowl
1 stove

Ingredients:
about 1/4 cup popcorn kernels
1-2 tbs. salt
about 1/4 cup vegetable or olive oil
2 tbs melted butter (optional)

Step 1:
Pour the popcorn kernels into the pot. You should put enough kernels in so that there is a single, even layer of kernels covering the bottom of the pot.

Step 2:
Pour in the oil. Note that the above measurement is approximate. The kernels don't need to be swimming in oil. The same rule applies for the oil as the popcorn kernels - you only need enough to cover the bottom of the pot.

Step 3:
Cover the pot and set the heat to high.

Step 4:
Once the popcorn begins to pop, reduce the heat to a low-medium setting. Once the pot has begun to fill with popped kernels, the popping will slow. Listen for it to slow down to about 3-4 seconds between pops and completely remove it from the heat.

Step 5:
Pour the popcorn into the bowl.

Step 6:
Add salt and shake the bowl so that the salt will evenly distribute throughout the popcorn. Repeat this step as necessary. If you are using butter, add it first so that the salt will stick.

That's all there is to it! This recipe makes enough popcorn for at least 4 people to share. This makes a great snack for movies, parties or any other time!