Air Fryer Popcorn: A Quick, Easy, And Healthy Snack

Making popcorn in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a tasty snack. It is healthier than other methods, as it requires less oil, and it is also mess-free. However, it is important to note that there is a risk of damaging your air fryer if the correct precautions are not taken. To make popcorn in an air fryer, simply add a single layer of kernels to the basket with some aluminium foil, heat at around 400°F for 7-10 minutes, and then season to taste.

How to prepare the air fryer

Preparing your air fryer is a crucial step in making popcorn with it. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your air fryer for making delicious, fluffy popcorn:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Before you begin making popcorn, it's essential to preheat your air fryer to ensure the best results. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it ensures the air fryer is hot enough to cook the kernels evenly. If your air fryer doesn't have a preheat setting, simply turn it on and let it run for about 5 minutes before adding the kernels.

Step 2: Line the Air Fryer Basket with Aluminium Foil

This step is optional but recommended to make the cleanup process easier and prevent kernels from falling through the basket holes. Take a sheet of aluminium foil and line the bottom and walls of the air fryer basket. Make sure to crimp the sides of the foil to secure it in place. However, be cautious not to cover the entire basket, as the vents and air holes are necessary for the popping process.

Step 3: Prepare the Popcorn Kernels

For this step, you'll need plain popcorn kernels and a small amount of oil or butter. You can use a neutral oil like avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, or even melted butter. Add the kernels to a bowl and drizzle a small amount of oil or butter over them. Stir or toss gently with a spoon to ensure all the kernels are evenly coated.

Step 4: Spread the Kernels in the Air Fryer Basket

Now, carefully spread the coated kernels in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared air fryer basket. It's important to ensure that the kernels are not overlapping and have some space between them. This step helps ensure even popping and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to uneven results or burning.

Step 5: Air Fry the Popcorn

Once your kernels are prepared and spread in the basket, it's time to start the air fryer! Place the basket into the air fryer and set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the model of your air fryer, but on average, it should take around 7-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the popcorn, especially towards the end of the cooking time, to avoid burning. You'll know it's ready when the popping slows down significantly.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Once the popping has slowed, turn off the air fryer and carefully remove the basket. Let the popcorn sit for a moment to allow any remaining kernels to pop. Then, transfer the popcorn to a bowl and add your desired seasonings or toppings. You can keep it classic with salt and butter, or get creative with flavours like cinnamon sugar, ranch seasoning, or even spicy chili powder. Serve and enjoy your freshly made, crispy popcorn!

How to prepare the kernels

Preparing the kernels is a crucial step in making popcorn in an air fryer. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Firstly, gather your kernels. You can find plain popcorn kernels in most supermarkets, usually in the same area as boxed popcorn. It is recommended to use a quarter cup of kernels for a standard-sized air fryer, but you can adjust the amount depending on the size of your air fryer.

Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare the kernels. Take a small bowl and add your desired amount of kernels to it. Then, add a little oil or melted butter to the bowl. You can use a variety of oils, such as avocado oil, coconut oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, or popcorn oil. Give the kernels a good stir to ensure they are evenly coated with oil. You can also add a pinch of salt at this stage if you prefer your popcorn to be salty.

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to prepare the air fryer basket. Line the basket with aluminium foil, ensuring that the foil does not cover the entire basket. The vents and air holes are important for the popping process, so only cover the base of the basket. You can also add some foil to the walls of the basket to catch any flying kernels.

Now, carefully spread the coated kernels in a single layer on the foil-lined basket. It is important that the kernels are not overlapping and have some space between them. This ensures even popping and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to burning.

Finally, place the air fryer basket into the air fryer and get ready to start cooking your delicious, healthy snack!

How long to cook the kernels for

The cooking time for the kernels will depend on the quantity of kernels you are cooking, the type of air fryer you are using, and the temperature setting.

For an air fryer set to 400°F, it is recommended to cook the kernels for 7-10 minutes. You should start to hear the kernels pop after about 3 minutes. Once the popping slows down, turn off the air fryer and let the basket sit for a minute to allow any remaining kernels to pop.

If you are cooking a large amount of popcorn, it is best to work in small batches to ensure even cooking. It is also important to shake the basket occasionally during cooking to prevent burning and ensure even popping.

For medium-sized air fryers (3-5 liters), it is recommended to pop only two tablespoons of kernels at a time.

How to season the popcorn

Once you've cooked your popcorn in the air fryer, it's time to season it! Here are some detailed instructions and ideas to get you started:

Preparing the Popcorn for Seasoning

First, remove the air fryer basket and place the popcorn into a large mixing bowl. It's important to do this step promptly to ensure the popcorn doesn't get soggy. You can also use a large paper bag for this step if you don't want to wash up a bowl. Simply transfer the cooked popcorn into the bag, fold over the top, and give it a good shake.

Basic Seasoning Ideas

Now, it's time to add your seasonings. Here are some basic options:

• Salt: Sprinkle salt over the freshly popped popcorn to taste. You can use regular table salt or get creative with sea salt, garlic salt, or other flavoured salts.
• Butter: Drizzle or spray melted butter over the popcorn. For an even coating, you can also spritz the popcorn with cooking spray or use a food spritzer bottle.
• Sugar: For a sweet treat, sprinkle granulated sugar over the popcorn. You can also use a sweetener of your choice.

Creative Seasoning Combinations

If you want to get more creative, try experimenting with these flavour combinations:

• White Cheddar: Spritz the popcorn with cooking spray, then toss with nutritional yeast or popcorn cheese flavouring.
• Kettle Corn: Spritz the popcorn with cooking spray and toss with a combination of granulated sweetener (sugar or a substitute) and salt.
• Chocolate Chip: Toss the popcorn with mini chocolate chips. You can also experiment with other types of chocolate or candies.
• Spicy: Drizzle sriracha or your favourite hot sauce over the popcorn. You can also try using spicy chilli powder.
• Caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the popcorn for a decadent treat.
• Taco Seasoning: For a savoury twist, sprinkle taco seasoning over the popcorn.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Combine cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle over the popcorn for a sweet and aromatic treat.
• Ranch Seasoning: Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the popcorn for a tangy and zesty flavour.
• Garlic and Parmesan: Combine grated parmesan cheese with garlic powder and toss with the popcorn. You can also use parmesan flavouring.

Storage

If you have any leftover seasoned popcorn, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, it's best to consume it within a few days, as the seasonings may cause the popcorn to become soggy over time.

How to store the popcorn

To store your freshly made air fryer popcorn, follow these steps:

Firstly, it's important to let the popcorn cool completely before storing it. This will prevent excess moisture from forming, which can make the popcorn stale. Once it's cooled down, transfer the popcorn to an airtight container. You can use a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or a glass jar with a rubber seal.

If you've seasoned your popcorn, it's best to store it separately from plain popcorn to prevent the toppings from becoming soggy and losing their flavour. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing the popcorn in a humid area, as moisture can cause it to become soggy.

Popcorn stored in an airtight container can last for up to a week. If you'd like to keep it fresh for longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. However, freezing is not recommended as it can make the popcorn soft and soggy.

Frequently asked questions