The only difference between microwaveable popcorn and whole kernels is the bag. If your microwave does not work, you can still make popcorn in a pan. This will work for both microwave popcorn and plain popcorn kernels.
Making Microwave Popcorn In a Pan
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Things You'll Need
Heavy lidded 5-qt. or larger saucepan
Vegetable oil
Salt (optional)
Melted butter (optional)
Potholders
1. Coat pan with oil
Pour enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan with an even coating.
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2. Add the popcorn
Open the bag of microwave popcorn and dump the kernels into the saucepan. Add just enough corn to fill the pan in a single layer. If your popcorn bag has more, save it for a second popping.
3. Heat at medium
Turn the heat to medium heat and cover the pan.
4. Get ready for popping
Listen as the pan, oil and popcorn heat up. Using potholders, place one hand on the lid of the pan and the other on the handle when you hear the popcorn begin to pop.
5. Shake, shake, shake
Shake the pan across the burner of your stovetop while the popcorn is popping. Do not stop shaking or the kernels will burn. This popping process should take around a minute, depending on the brand and type of popcorn.
6. Take it off the heat
Remove the pan from the heat once you no longer hear popcorn kernels pop or the popping slows significantly.
7. Season (if desired) and serve
Remove the lid from the pan and serve the popcorn. The flavorings and oils from the bag should have already flavored the popcorn in the pan. Optionally add salt and melted butter to taste.
Tip
Oils with a high smoke point, like peanut or canola oil, can improve popping success.