3 tablespoons canola or peanut oil (or any oil with a high smoke point)
⅓ cup popcorn kernels
Salt to taste
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon pepper
This is a great base recipe for adding whatever flavors, sweet or savory, you want.
In a 3 quart saucepan (one with high sides), heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add salt to taste, then place 3-4 kernels in the pan and cover.
Once those few kernels pop, pour in the remaining kernels, making sure to keep them in an even layer. Cover and remove from heat. After 30 seconds, place pan back over heat. Once you hear the kernels popping, gently shake the pan back and forth over the burner. Keep the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Once popping slows to several seconds between pops, remove the lid and immediately pour popcorn into a large bowl.
Add Parmesan, garlic powder, and pepper and toss to coat. Add more salt, if needed. Serve immediately.