You can make popcorn in a saucepan, but it requires a stovetop and takes considerably longer. This approach consumes a paper bag, but is much faster and much easier for kids -- and the Kidlet will never turn down popcorn.

Real Buttered Popcorn

From the Complete Cookbook for Young Chefs by America's Test Kitchen

Ingredients

• ¼ C popcorn kernels
• ½ tsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ tsp salt

Directions

1. Combine popcorn and oil in a paper bag. Fold the top over three times to seal.
2. Shake bag vigorously to coat kernels.
3. Place bag on its side on a microwave-safe plate and shake again to arrange the kernels in a single layer.
4. Microwave until the popping slows to 1-2 pops at a time, 3-5 minutes. Remove the plate carefully from the microwave; it will be hot.
5. Put the butter in a large microwave-safe bowl, and microwave on medium until melted, 30-60 seconds.
6. Add the popcorn to the bowl and toss until coated with the butter. Sprinkle with salt and serve.