Coconut oil popcorn is the perfect, easy, late-night snack that hits the spot!
Yes kids, it’s true, grown-ups bust out all the good snacks after you go to bed, including this Coconut Oil Popcorn! You just need refined coconut oil, popcorn kernels, salt, and a good pot!
Best coconut oil for popcorn
Coconut oil gets categorized as refined or unrefined. I prefer refined coconut oil for popcorn as it has a mild coconut flavor and a higher smoke point compared to unrefined coconut oil. There are many brands out there that make refined coconut oil.
Why coconut oil popcorn?
Coconut oil and popcorn are a perfect match. It may not be the first choice that comes to mind, but the mild coconut flavor and salt are delicious! When you cook popcorn with oil, the oil helps conduct heat, ensures the kernels pop, and keeps the kernels from burning.
Coconut oil popcorn nutrition
Coconut oil contains saturated fat, plant sterols, and MCT oil.
Plant sterols may help inhibit the absorption of cholesterol. When passing through the GI tract, plant sterols block the absorption of LDL cholesterol. Remember, LDL cholesterol (aka “bad cholesterol) as it can build up in blood vessel walls, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Coconut oil contains some medium-chain triglycerides (MCT). MCT’s are shorter in length, therefore they are broken down and absorbed more quickly compared to long chain fatty acids. This means that MCT’s can be used as quick energy.
Stovetop popcorn with coconut oil
Air popped, lightly seasoned popcorn makes an excellent, healthy snack! Popcorn kernels are whole grain and high in fiber. High fiber whole grains may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
I prefer stovetop popcorn over microwave popcorn as it tastes more fresh, crunchy, and savory. I also like knowing exactly what ingredients are in my popcorn and controlling the amount of oil and salt. Once you start making popcorn on the stovetop, you won’t go back.
Melted coconut oil
Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, therefore, it must be melted and heated to make popcorn. Be sure to cook the oil over medium high heat until melted.
Smoke point
The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil produces visible smoke.Refined coconut oil has a smoke point of400-450 degrees F, which makes it ideal for high heat cooking. Refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point than unrefined coconut oil, making it the better choice for cooking popcorn.
Tips for cooking popcorn on the stove
Cooking popcorn on the stove can be intimidating at first, so it’s important to remember a few key items.
- Use a good heavy bottom pan with a fitted lid to make sure the heat is distributed evenly
- Test 3-4 kernels to gauge the temperature
- Tilt the lid to vent the steam
How to make popcorn with coconut oil
Let’s make coconut oil popcorn! First, gather all the ingredients and equipment. You will need a heavy bottom pan, lid, 1/4 cup popping kernels, 1 Tbsp refined coconut oil, and salt.
Add the coconut oil to the pan
Next, heat coconut oil over medium high heat until melted. Add 3-4 popcorn kernels to the pot and cover with the lid.
When the popcorn pops add the rest of the kernels.
As soon as one of the kernels has popped, add the rest of the kernels. Slightly tilt the lid to vent the steam.
Do not forget to shake the pot occasionally
Now, shake the pot occasionally until all the kernels have popped. Do not forget this step, shaking the pot allows the kernels to cook evenly and prevents some for burning. Listen for the kernels to pop 2-3 seconds apart. Finally, transfer the popcorn to a bowl and top with a little sea salt! Eat immediately for best results. Enjoy!
More popcorn recipes
If you enjoyed coconut oil popcorn, I know you’ll enjoy these popcorn snacks!
- Homemade Popcorn Trail Mix with Blueberries, Walnuts, Seeds & Chocolate
- Nutty Cherry and Bacon Popcorn
- Homemade Zesty Ranch Popcorn Perfect for Movie Night
Coconut Oil Stovetop Popcorn
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp refined coconut oil
- 1/4 cup popping kernels
- Sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil over medium high heat until melted.
- Add 3-4 popcorn kernels to the pot and cover with the lid.
- As soon as one of the kernels has popped, add the rest of the kernels.
- Slightly tilt the lid to vent the steam and shake occasionally until all the kernels have popped.
- Top with a little sea salt and enjoy!
