Making popcorn from scratch can be tricky. Not only do you want as many kernels as possible to pop, but you also want to keep the kernels from burning at the bottom of the pan!
Until my mother showed me her way of making stovetop popcorn, I usually took the easy way out and used (gasp!) microwave popcorn, which by the way, is not that good for you.
My mother’s method of making popcorn not only pops almost every kernel, it also prevents the kernels from burning. She first learned this technique decades ago from the back of a popcorn box.
Her approach allows the popcorn kernels to come to an even temperature before popping, which results in much fewer un-popped kernels (usually none) and fewer burnt kernels (again, usually none).
Ever since we first posted this how-to in 2005, it has been one of the most popular recipes on the site. Enjoy! https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/perfect_popcorn/