
"This rare and wonderful popcorn pops up as white snow and delivers a flavor like no other! The perfect contrast to bland commodity popcorn and its cardboard texture."
- Rancho Gordo
If you're here to learn how to make popcorn on the stove, chances are you've got a game to watch. Or maybe a movie queued up. I feel you. Let's run through this.
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The Bean Book
This popcorn recipe comes straight from the kitchen of Rancho Gordo and we couldn't be happier with them. Whether you're looking for beautiful heirloom beans, trustworthy recipes, or a unique piece of kitchen equipment, Rancho Gordo has everything you need.
Don't even get me started on the Bean Club!
related recipe!
Chili sin Carne
Made with big, beefy Ayocote Morado beans, zucchini, and corn.
If you like this popcorn, you should try the kala, chickpea salad, healthy mashed potatoes, hoppin' john, and mooncakes for some added variety.
Family & Kids Cooking Resources
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Food from Around the World: Free Cooking Lessons
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Free Cooking Course for Families
Discover recipes for every continent! Sign up to receive free cooking lessons for the whole family. Learn from some of the most talented chefs around the world and participate in the quality practical life experiences Montessori education is known for.
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How to Make Popcorn
Ingredients
- oil - any neutral cooking oil will work
- popcorn kernels - try Rancho Gordo's crimson popping corn for a unique treat
- salt - add salt as desired
- butter - salted or unsalted butter? Have it your way!
Equipment
- kitchen scale (optional)
- measuring spoon
- bowl
- carbon steel pan
- frying pan universal lid
Heat the Oil in a Pan
Wash your hands with soap and water. Use a measuring spoon to add the oil to the pan. Heat the oil over medum-high heat.
Add the Popcorn Kernels to the Pan
Use a kitchen scale to weigh the kernels or use your estimation skills. Once the oil is hot, transfer the popcorn kernels to the pan. Give the pan a shake.
Cover the Pan
Grab your handy universal pan lid and place it on top of the pan. Shake the pan occasionally while the popcorn is cooking.

Cook Until the Popping Slows Down
Once the popping slows to 1 pop every 2 or 3 seconds, you're good to go. Turn off the stove.
Get Back to the Game
Transfer your popcorn to a bowl and get back to that game!
free recipe!
How to Make Popcorn
Get it popping on the stove and get back to that game.
Free Popcorn Recipe for Pre-Readers and Up
Grab your free printable recipe cards above. Kids can gather ingredients using the ingredient list, gather their equipment with the tools list, and prepare the meal using the step-by-step recipe cards, with assistance as needed.
How to Make Popcorn on the Stove
Equipment
- Measuring Spoon
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil
- ½ cup crimson popping corn
- salt as desired
- melted butter as desired
Instructions
- Heat the Oil in a Pan: Wash your hands with soap and water. Use a measuring spoon to add the oil to the pan. Heat the oil over medum-high heat.
- Add the Popcorn Kernels to the Pan: Use a kitchen scale to weigh the kernels or use your estimation skills. Once the oil is hot, transfer the popcorn kernels to the pan. Give the pan a shake.
- Cover the Pan: Grab your handy universal pan lid and place it on top of the pan. Shake the pan occasionally while the popcorn is cooking.
- Cook Until the Popping Slows Down: Once the popping slows to 1 pop every 2 or 3 seconds, you're good to go. Turn off the stove.
- Get Back to the Game: Transfer your popcorn to a bowl and get back to that game!
Notes
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
- See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
- Full Lesson Info and Pictures at: https://happyhomeschooladventures.com/popcorn
Nutrition
Estimated nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is not guaranteed.
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