Alton Brown Microwave Popcorn Recipe

Microwave popcorn doesn’t have to be loaded with chemicals or weird ingredients!

This method keeps it simple—just popcorn kernels, a paper bag, and whatever seasonings you like.

I always listen closely while it pops, and the moment there’s a two-second pause between pops, I stop the microwave to keep it from burning.

You’ll quickly learn the exact amount of time your microwave needs to get your bag just right!

A drizzle of melted butter right after opening the bag helps everything stick, whether it’s sea salt or something more adventurous like garlic powder.

Freshly popped corn has a light texture that beats anything out of a plastic-wrapped bag.

Once you’ve tried this, those prepackaged microwave bags won’t even be an option anymore!

How to Make Alton Brown Microwave Popcorn

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup Popcorn Kernels
• 1 Brown Paper Lunch Bag
• 1 tsp Olive Oil
• 1/2 tsp Popcorn Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Place the popcorn kernels in a brown paper lunch bag.

Add the olive oil and salt to the bag.

Fold the top of the bag over twice to keep it secure.

Step 2:

Gently shake the bag so that the kernels are evenly coated with oil and salt.

Step 3:

Put the bag upright in the microwave.

Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, or until there is a 5-second gap between pops.

Step 4:

Once popping stops, carefully remove the bag from the microwave to avoid any steam burns.

Open the bag slowly to let the steam escape.

Step 5:

Pour the popcorn into a large bowl.

Add additional salt or melted butter if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Alton Brown microwave popcorn!

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Even Coating

Ensure you shake the bag well to evenly distribute oil and salt over all the kernels.

This little step helps in achieving that perfect burst of flavor in every bite!

Monitoring Popping

Stay near the microwave to listen to the popping sounds.

Sometimes, microwaves can vary in power, so keeping an ear out helps prevent burning.

Oil Options

Don’t limit yourself to olive oil, as coconut or avocado oil can add unique flavors.

Experiment with different oils to find your favorite taste match!

Bag Security

Fold the bag tightly to safely secure the contents and allow the steam to pop the kernels efficiently.

You do not need tape if the folds are snug.

Adding Flavors

Feel free to sprinkle nutritional yeast or a pinch of cinnamon after popping for a flavor twist.

These additions can amplify the taste and keep things interesting!

What to Serve with Alton Brown Microwave Popcorn

Cheese Platters

A cheese platter pairs beautifully with Alton Brown’s microwave popcorn, bringing a touch of sophistication to your snack time.

Choose a mix of soft and hard cheeses, such as brie and aged cheddar, to offer a variety of flavors and textures.

Include some grapes or apple slices on the side to add a refreshing contrast.

Spicy Nuts

For those who appreciate a bit of heat, spicy nuts are a wonderful complement to the rich taste of popcorn.

Roast your favorite nuts with cayenne pepper and a pinch of paprika to create this snack pairing.

Enjoy the crunchy nuts alongside the popcorn, creating a perfect balance of spicy and savory.

Fresh Veggie Sticks

Crisp veggie sticks, such as carrots and celery, provide a fresh and healthy contrast to the buttery popcorn.

Pair these veggies with a creamy dip, like ranch or hummus, to enhance their flavor.

It’s a great way to add some nutrition to your popcorn snack session.

Dark Chocolate

Consider including some high-quality dark chocolate to serve alongside your popcorn for a touch of sweetness.

Break the chocolate into small squares to enjoy in between bites of popcorn.

The rich and slightly bitter chocolate complements the savory popcorn perfectly.

Pickles

Adding pickles to the mix might sound unusual, yet their tangy crunch works surprisingly well with popcorn.

Choose your favorite variety, whether it’s dill or bread-and-butter pickles.

The acidity of the pickles cuts through the richness of the popcorn for an unexpected but harmonious pairing.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Oils

Try using olive oil or avocado oil instead of peanut oil for a unique twist on flavor.

Each oil will bring its own essence, so it’s a fun way to personalize your popcorn.

Salt Options

If you’re watching your sodium intake, try nutritional yeast or a low-sodium salt as a substitute.

There’s also the option of trying flavored salts like truffle salt for a gourmet touch.

Spicy Additions

Add a sprinkle of jalapeno seasoning or even cayenne pepper to give your popcorn a spicy kick.

This is a quick and easy way to liven up your snack time without any extra effort.

Cheese Flavors

Experiment with parmesan cheese or cheddar powder to create a cheesy version of this classic snack!

Mix well to coat evenly and enjoy that cheesy goodness with every bite.

Sweet Options

For a sweet version, consider shaking in some cinnamon sugar or cocoa powder.

This can turn your popcorn into a great treat that’s perfect for a movie night or a special snack time!

How to Store Leftover Alton Brown Microwave Popcorn

You’ve made a batch of Alton Brown’s popcorn, and now there’s some leftover popcorn on your hands!

No worries, I’ve got just the tips for you.

Use Airtight Containers

First of all, it’s essential to keep your popcorn fresh.

I suggest using an airtight container or a ziplock bag to store your leftover popcorn.

This will help maintain its crunchiness and flavor for up to one week at room temperature.

Keep It Cool and Dry

Store your sealed container in a cool, dry place.

Avoiding humidity is key, as moisture can make the popcorn go stale quickly.

Make sure the storage spot is away from direct sunlight.

Avoid Refrigeration

You’re probably wondering if refrigeration is an option.

I recommend against it because the popcorn might lose its crunchy texture due to the moisture in the fridge.

Trust me, keeping it in a dry place at room temperature is the way to go!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Container

To make Alton Brown’s microwave popcorn, you want the right container.

Microwave-safe glass bowls with tight-fitting lids work great.

Avoid using containers that can easily warp or melt.

Skipping the Oil

You might think skipping oil is a healthier option, but it’ll lead to uneven popping.

A small amount of oil helps each kernel pop to its potential.

Use a neutral oil such as canola for perfect results.

Neglecting to Listen

One mistake people often make is timing their popcorn instead of listening to it pop.

Listening helps you hear when popping slows to about 2 seconds between each pop.

In microwave popcorn-making, this ensures you don’t end up with burnt popcorn.