Instead of using single-use microwaveable bags that cook unevenly or leave tons of unpopped kernels, having your own popcorn maker allows you more control over ingredients, flavor, and cooking level.

When the test kernels pop, remove the pot from heat and put in about 2/3 cup of popcorn kernels, just enough to coat the bottom in a single layer. Do not put in too much.

Eat your way to the bottom of almost any bag of popcorn and there they are: the rock-hard, jaw-rattling unpopped kernels known as old maids. The nuisance kernels have kept many a dentist busy, but ...

No matter what method you use to make popcorn, you always seem to end up with a few kernels that didn't pop. Soaking the kernels overnight in water can help them pop the second time around.