Air-Fried Popcorn: Oil-Free, Healthy Snacking!

Popcorn is a versatile snack that can be made in several ways, including on the stovetop, in the microwave, or with a popcorn machine. But can you pop popcorn in an air fryer? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is recommended to use a small amount of oil or butter to coat the kernels before placing them in the air fryer. This helps the kernels heat up more quickly and pop evenly. However, some sources suggest that it is possible to make popcorn in an air fryer without any oil at all.

Popcorn kernels can be used in an air fryer

To make popcorn in an air fryer, start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Then, line the air fryer basket with aluminium foil, ensuring the foil doesn't cover the entire basket, as this can cause a fire hazard. Next, add a single layer of popcorn kernels to the basket. Using a single layer ensures even popping and prevents overcrowding, which can burn the hinges of the air fryer.

Once the kernels are in the basket, you can add a little oil or butter. This step is optional, but it improves the flavour and texture of the popcorn. You can use olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, ghee, or butter. After adding the oil or butter, gently toss the kernels with a spoon to coat them evenly.

Now, close the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 400°F. After about 3 minutes, you'll start to hear the kernels pop. Air fry the popcorn for 7-8 minutes. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.

Finally, remove the air fryer basket and place the popcorn into a mixing bowl. You can now add your desired seasonings and toppings, such as salt, butter, nutritional yeast, cinnamon sugar, ranch seasoning, or spicy chili powder.

Some tips for making popcorn in an air fryer include:

• Preheat your air fryer and use aluminium foil to ensure even popping and prevent a mess.
• Use the right amount of kernels and cook in small batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure proper popping.
• Shake the basket during cooking to ensure even popping and prevent burning.
• Monitor the cooking process, especially towards the end, to avoid burning.
• Season the popcorn after cooking to avoid interfering with the air frying process and burning.

Oil is not necessary but can be used

Oil is not necessary for popping popcorn in an air fryer, but it can be used to improve the flavour and texture. If you want to use oil, it is important to coat the kernels with a small amount of oil before cooking. You can use any type of oil or butter you prefer, but keep in mind that some options are healthier than others. For example, extra-light olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil are good choices as they have a higher smoke point. Avoid using regular butter as it will burn and smoke during cooking.

To pop popcorn in an air fryer without oil, simply add the desired amount of kernels to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer. Close the basket and set the temperature to 400°F. After about 3 minutes, you'll start to hear the kernels pop. Let the popcorn cook for 7-8 minutes. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.

If you want to use oil, follow the same steps but add a small amount of oil to the kernels before placing them in the air fryer. Toss the kernels gently to coat them with oil, then spread them out in a single layer.

Whether you use oil or not, once your popcorn is ready, you can add your favourite seasonings and toppings. Some popular choices include salt, butter, nutritional yeast, cinnamon sugar, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, and spicy chili powder. Get creative and experiment with different flavour combinations!

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an essential step in the popcorn-making process. It ensures that the appliance is hot enough to cook the kernels evenly, which is crucial for achieving the desired crispy texture. Here is a detailed guide on preheating your air fryer for making popcorn:

First, set the temperature to 400°F. This temperature setting is standard across most air fryer models and ensures consistent cooking. If your air fryer does not have a preheat function, simply turn it on and let it run for about five minutes before adding the kernels. This step is vital, as it brings the air fryer up to the optimal temperature for popping kernels.

Next, prepare the air fryer basket. Line the basket with aluminium foil, ensuring that it covers the base and walls. This step is important because, without foil, the popcorn kernels may fly all over the air fryer or get stuck in the air circulator. However, be cautious not to cover the entire basket with foil, as the vents and air holes are necessary for effective popping.

Once your air fryer is preheated and the basket is lined, you can proceed to add the kernels and oil. Place the desired amount of kernels in a single layer at the bottom of the basket, ensuring they do not touch each other. This arrangement allows for even heat distribution and prevents overcrowding, which can hinder proper popping.

After adding the kernels, drizzle a small amount of oil over them and gently toss with a spoon to coat them evenly. You can use a neutral oil like avocado oil or coconut oil, or clarified butter if you prefer a buttery flavour. Avoid using regular butter, as it tends to burn and smoke during cooking.

Finally, close the air fryer basket and let it cook for a few minutes. Depending on your air fryer model, the popping should begin within three to five minutes. Listen for the popping to slow down, then turn off the air fryer and let it sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in making popcorn, as it ensures even cooking and helps achieve the desired texture. By following these steps, you'll be able to make a delicious batch of air-fried popcorn with minimal hassle.

Line the air fryer basket with foil

If you decide to use foil, it's important to position or wrap it in a way that prevents it from blowing upward during air frying. Using foil in the base can cause kernels to get stuck and burn. If you don't want to use foil, you can simply add the kernels directly to the air fryer basket.

Season the popcorn after cooking

Seasoning your popcorn after cooking is a great way to add flavour and avoid burning. You can use any type of seasoning you like, from simple salt and butter to more creative options like garlic powder, nutritional yeast, cinnamon sugar, or even taco seasoning.

• Transfer the popcorn to a bowl before seasoning to avoid making a mess in your air fryer.
• Add melted butter or oil to your popcorn before seasoning for extra flavour and to help the seasonings stick.
• Experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find your favourite flavour profiles.
• If you're using pre-seasoned popcorn kernels, make sure the seasonings are suitable for air frying and won't burn at high temperatures.
• Store any leftover seasoned popcorn in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.

Frequently asked questions