Popcorn – the ultimate snacking companion, whether you’re binging the latest Netflix series or cozying up with a book on a rainy afternoon. There’s something about the way those kernels dance and pop in an air fryer that feels like a tiny celebration. And let’s be real, who can resist that buttery aroma wafting through the kitchen?
Steps
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. Line the bottom of the air fryer basket with tin foil, leaving about a half-inch margin around the edges to ensure air circulation.
- Place the popcorn kernels in a single layer on the foil-lined basket. Insert the basket into the air fryer and cook the kernels for 8-9 minutes.
- After cooking, let the basket sit in the air fryer for an additional 20-30 seconds to allow any remaining kernels to pop. Remove the basket and transfer the popcorn to a large bowl.
- Sprinkle salt over the popcorn and add any additional flavorings you prefer. Serve the popcorn immediately for the best taste and texture.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
- 1 teaspoon salt for serving
Nutritional Values
Calories: 154kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 2g | Sodium: 1166mg | Potassium: 112mg | Fiber: 6g | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 2mg | NET CARBS: 24g
FAQ
- Can you add butter or oil before popping popcorn in the air fryer?
- Yes, you can mix butter or oil with the kernels before placing them in the air fryer if you prefer your popcorn to have a buttery flavor. However, this is optional as the recipe works well without any added fats.
- Is it okay to season the popcorn kernels before air frying?
- No, you should not add salt or seasonings to the kernels before air frying. Adding seasonings prior to popping can interfere with the process, so it’s best to season the popcorn after it has been cooked.
- Can microwave popcorn be used in an air fryer?
- It’s not recommended to use microwave popcorn in an air fryer, as the pre-flavored and oiled kernels are likely to burn and not pop properly. It’s best to use plain popcorn kernels.
- How many calories are in air fryer popcorn?
- A single cup of popcorn prepared in the air fryer, as per the instructions, contains approximately 20 calories.
- Can air fryer popcorn be frozen?
- Freezing popcorn is not advised, as it will become soft and lose its crunch. Store any leftover popcorn at room temperature in a sealed container for up to one week instead.
Tips
- Utilize Tin Foil Wisely: Ensure you only cover the base of the air fryer basket with tin foil. Avoid covering the entire basket, as the air holes are essential for properly popping the kernels.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket with popcorn kernels. This can potentially damage your air fryer. If you need a larger batch, prepare the popcorn in multiple rounds.
- Flavor After Popping: Refrain from adding any flavorings or oil to the kernels prior to popping. It’s best to add these after the popcorn is cooked to ensure optimal popping and flavor distribution.
- Batch Cooking for Larger Quantities: If you want to make more popcorn, do so in smaller batches instead of one large one to ensure even cooking and avoid burning the air fryer.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – Essential for cooking the popcorn as described in the recipe.
- Tin Foil – Used to line the base of the air fryer basket.
- Food Spritzer Bottle – Useful for applying butter, oil, or other liquid flavorings evenly on the popcorn.
