Everyday meals · United States

Popcorn

Name: Popcorn
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: United States
Ingredients: ½ cup unpopped popcorn kernels; 1 tbsp fine salt (non-iodized for those who prefer it); 6 tbsp clarified butter, divided; Finely chopped herbs, such as rosemary and/or thyme (optional); Cayenne pepper (optional); Brewer's yeast (optional)

Though popcorn is commonly available pre-popped or in microwave-oven ready popping bags, it is simple to make from scratch. In this recipe, "fine" or "popcorn salt" is helpful, because it sticks more easily, and imparts strong flavor with less of the ingredient.

Published October 16, 2026

EST. TOTAL TIME40 min

DIFFICULTYMedium

SERVES4

Time and difficulty are editorial estimates; allow extra time for your equipment and experience.

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What you’ll need

Tap an ingredient as you get it ready.

½ cup unpopped popcorn kernels
1 tbsp fine salt (non-iodized for those who prefer it)
6 tbsp clarified butter, divided
Finely chopped herbs, such as rosemary and/or thyme (optional)
Cayenne pepper (optional)
Brewer's yeast (optional)

Let’s make it

Step 1
Heat a large stainless steel bowl (or cast-iron skillet) over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 tsp clarified butter, salt, and popcorn kernels and cover with perforated aluminum foil or spatter screen.
Step 2
Cook, shaking the pan continuously with tongs, for 45 seconds to 1 minute, or until popping slows to about 3 seconds between pops.
Step 3
Move popped corn to a large serving bowl, leaving any unpopped kernels behind.
Step 4
Toss with melted butter, salt, and any optional seasonings. Serve warm.

Popcorn

What you’ll need

Let’s make it

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