How to make perfect microwave popcorn

Step 1: Start fresh

First, be sure your bag of popcorn isn't past the sell-by date. Old, dried-out kernels won't pop.

Step 2: Water your corn

Before microwaving the popcorn, place 1 cup of water in the microwave and run for one minute (then throw the now-hot water in the sink). The added moisture from the steam you made will allow for the most efficient and complete popping of the bag of popcorn.

Step 3: Stand by & listen

Cook the bag of popcorn according to package directions -- but stay right there at the microwave so you can shut it off as soon as the pops slow down (less than about 2 seconds between pops), even if that means you're only popping for about 2/3 of the suggested cooking time.

Step 4: Shake, shake, shake

Once the corn is popped, shake the bag well before opening, so all of the salt and oil is evenly distributed onto the kernels.

Step 5: Open it up

Carefully open the bag so you don't get burned by the steam.

Step 6: Get a big bowl

Pour the popcorn into a large bowl (so that you don't get greasy up to your elbow from digging around in the bag).

For more information on popcorn, check out:
Popcorn: A healthy hit or a miss?