You can make popcorn without a microwave oven and oil using a stovetop or an air-popper. Here's how to do it:
1. Stovetop method (using a pot or saucepan): Ingredients:
- Popcorn kernels
- Salt (optional, for seasoning)
Instructions:
- Place a pot or saucepan on the stove over medium heat.
- Add a few popcorn kernels to the pot and cover it with a lid.
- Wait until you hear the test kernels pop. This indicates that the pot is hot enough for the rest of the popcorn.
- Remove the test kernels from the pot.
- Add a single layer of popcorn kernels to the pot, making sure they spread evenly at the bottom.
- Cover the pot with the lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape.
- Shake the pot gently to prevent the popcorn from burning and ensure even cooking.
- Continue shaking the pot occasionally until the popping slows down significantly.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.
- Season with salt or your preferred seasoning.
2. Air-popper method: If you don't want to use oil, an air-popper is a great alternative to make healthier popcorn.
Instructions:
- Place the air-popper on a flat, stable surface.
- Add popcorn kernels to the air-popper's chamber.
- Turn on the air-popper and wait for the popcorn to pop and flow out into the serving bowl.
- Season with salt or your preferred seasoning.
Both of these methods produce oil-free popcorn, but do keep in mind that without oil, the popcorn may be less flavorful and have a drier texture compared to the microwave or oil-popped versions. If you prefer a little bit of moisture, you can lightly mist the popped popcorn with water and then season it to your liking.