A Kernel of Truth: The Best Way to Pop Popcorn

With snow blanketing much of the country, there's not much to do besides watch Netflix and munch your way through a big bowl of popcorn. But what's the most effective way to cook it?

The Kitchn put kernels and cooking methods to the test, determining that an old-fashioned Whirley Pop stovetop popcorn popper yielded the best results. "This method was fantastic on all accounts: The popcorn was the most delicious, the method was ridiculously fast, the popper felt safe and easy to use, and, maybe best of all, the process was very, very fun," noted food writer and newly christened popcorn aficionado, Ann Taylor Pittman. "And you can make quite a show of pouring the popcorn out of the hinged lid."

If you're too lazy to stove-pop your popcorn (The New York Times spiced wok-popped popcorn is also a favorite method), Delish rated 11 of the top microwave popcorn brands. Kirkland Signature microwave popcorn ranked number one. Of course, you'll have to have a Costco membership to purchase, and with 44 bags, it might be enough to get you through the pandemic.

Here's a look at some of our personal favorites: