Popcorn popper came without instructions

[Cookin4Love]

I just bought one of those stove-top popcorn poppers at Costco--the kind with the handle that turns a piece inside to keep the popcorn all stirred up. It referenced "simple instructions." They were so simple, I guess, that they left them out. I'm assuming I'd do the same thing I do when I cook popcorn on top of the stove--a little oil, drop in a few kernels, wait for them to pop, put in the rest of the kernels, stir until it's done. Anyone know for sure? I've always wanted one of these, and with my Kernel Seasons order on the way (Jalapeno, Parmesan/Garlic, Jalapeno, White Cheddar flavors--yum) it seemed like a good time to get one.

[Beth]

I would treat it like you do a pan on the stove, except it will be better for kettle corn or anything you want to season as it pops. I used to do exactly what you described with the pan on the stove. Somewhere I read or saw to go ahead and put all the popcorn in with the oil and bring it all up to temp together (might have been an Orville package), and that is what I have done ever since. No risk of that flying kernel hitting you, although I cannot say if there are any other pros or cons. It's been too long for me to remember if it pops any differently, but it certainly is easier.

[Catew]

That's exactly it! I haven't used mine in years, but you put in a teaspoon or two of oil, and about 1/2 cup of popcorn. Put it over HIGH heat, and start stirring like hell. It will pop almost all at once. Very tasty stuff. You do need a bit of oil.

[Cookin4Love]

Thanks! I'm glad to know that popcorn popping really ISN'T rocket science. :D I'll dump the whole thing in next time and see how it works. DH was funny when we made it--he said, "It tastes just the same." Well, duh--it's still popcorn! I did find, though, that there were only a couple of unpopped kernels, and nothing burned. Hopefully, this won't be another one of those use-it-a-few-times-then-ignore-it gadgets, but since DH makes popcorn almost every day, I think we'll get our money's worth. Now to decide whether to buy the cute red adn white popcorn bowls at Costco! :p

[Catew]

I like popcorn from this thing way more than microwave, but unfortunately, my kids taste a difference and only want the micropop stuff. So there we are. Otherwise, I'd use it frequently. It's nice with a flavored oil, too (as long as it can take the heat). Roasted peanut oil is especially nice.