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Popcorn remains a classic snack around the world, where it is commonly made in the microwave or on the stove. Despite being easy to make, popcorn can also cause a big mess.
Because of this, many people are looking for alternative methods to make their popcorn, whether that be in a kettle or a pressure cooker.
Nowadays, one of the best pressure cookers available is the instant pot, which allows you to cook food at high temperatures without burning it.
For this reason, instant pots can also be used to make popcorn, which helps to reduce the cooking time and produce delicious popcorn in a few minutes.
But how do you make instant pot popcorn? In this article, we will teach you how to make popcorn in your instant pot, while also outlining the process and everything you will need.
We have also included some amazing flavor combinations, which you can use to make your popcorn even better.
So if you own an instant pot and want to make your own popcorn, then this article has all you need to get started…
What Is An Instant Pot?
An instant pot is an automated cooker that features numerous functions, such as pressure cooking, slow cooking and rice cooking. It can also be used to steam or saute certain foods, without having to alter the appliance.
The first instant pot was first released in 2010, however, it has come a long way since its humble origins. Nowadays, the instant pot comes in various shapes and sizes, with different models boasting different features and uses.
Because of its versatile nature, the instant pot can be used to make a variety of different dishes, from noodles and curries to fries and popcorn.
What Is Instant Pot Popcorn?
As the name implies, instant pot popcorn is popcorn that has been made in an instant pot, which results in a delicious and healthy snack. Instant pot popcorn is far more nutritious than store-bought popcorn, as it contains fewer artificial ingredients and can be seasoned to your liking.
Of course, there are other benefits to making your own instant pot popcorn. For example, making your own popcorn is far more convenient and it allows you to avoid unhealthy microwave brands.
Now let’s take a look at how you can use an instant pot to make your own popcorn, as well as the supplies you will need.
How To Make Instant Pot Popcorn
Homemade popcorn can be a healthy snack for you and your friends, especially when you avoid butter and fattening oils…
However, this does not mean that you can make homemade popcorn without oil, as even instant pots need oil to cook the kernels. Without oil, the popcorn will not cook evenly and could burn before popping.
Because of this, it is advisable to use a natural oil when making your instant pot popcorn, as these are far less fattening than other types.
In most cases, people will recommend using olive oil to cook the kernels. However, olive oil comes with a low smoking point and is known to burn faster than other oils.
Butter is also known for its low smoking point, which is yet another reason why you should avoid using it to make your popcorn. In most cases, it is better to drizzle the melted butter when the corn has popped, as this makes for a delicious topping.
What Oil Should You Use?
When making instant pot popcorn, it is important to use the right oil. For this reason, you should not use vegetable oils to cook the kernels, as these oils have lower smoking points and will burn faster.
Because of this, we would recommend using extra virgin coconut oil. Coconut oil is also more nutritious than peanut oil, which is heavily processed. In contrast, coconut oil has a much higher smoking point and will help to cook the kernels evenly without burning the corn.
If you are unable to purchase coconut oil from your local supermarket, then you can also find the product on amazon and other online stores.
Instant Pot Popcorn Recipe
If you want to make your own instant pot popcorn, then this recipe has everything you need to get started. Just make sure that you have the right equipment, otherwise, your popcorn could burn and be rendered inedible.
What You Will Need
To make your own instant pot popcorn, you will need special equipment, which we have outlined below:
- Instant pot + lid
- Oven mitt
- Dry towel
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- Kernels (½ cup)
- Extra virgin coconut oil (2 tablespoons)
Method
- Plug in the instant pot and press the saute button. Turn up the temperature until the red light begins to flash. Press the saute button again and this should begin the correct program.
- Once the instant pot has been turned on, it will start to heat up. This process should take 2 – 5 minutes depending on the size of the model.
- When the pot has heated, you can add the coconut oil and leave it to rest until the oil has melted.
- Add the popcorn kernels to the pot and stir with a wooden spoon until all the kernels are coated in oil.
- Make sure the popcorn kernels are evenly distributed before adding the lid to the pot and covering completely.
- Leave the kernels for a few minutes and wait until the popping subsides. Once the popping has stopped, remove the lid using an oven mitt.
- Transfer the finished popcorn to a large bowl, while making sure to remove the unpopped kernels.
- Season to your preference and enjoy!
Popular Popcorn Flavors
When the popcorn is finished, you can season it with any flavor that you want, whether that be butter or autumn spice.
In the section below, we have outlined some of the most popular popcorn flavors, so that you can find the best one for your batch:
Butter
This classic seasoning has remained a popular choice for hundreds of years and continues to be a staple of the movie theater. Just add some melted butter to the finished batch and you will have a delicious treat in no time.
Cheddar
While the notion of cheddar popcorn may sound strange, it has fast become a popular topping for the iconic snack. To make your own cheddar popcorn, just add some grated cheese to the popped kernels. You can also use parmesan and truffle oil for a gourmet experience.
Cinnamon
If you prefer your popcorn sweet, then you will love this flavor combination. Just sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar over the finished batch and you will have everything you need for a decadent treat.
Caramel
Caramel remains a popular seasoning for homemade popcorn, even though it can be hard to get right. To make your own caramel popcorn, we would recommend making the caramel on the stove and then pouring it over the finished batch. Just don’t pour it into the instant pot or you could cause a mess.
Final Thoughts
Instant pot popcorn is a fast and convenient way to make delicious popcorn, without having to rely on the stove or microwave. By making your own popcorn, you can avoid artificial ingredients and produce a nutritious snack for you and your family. Just add your seasoning of choice and tuck in.
