What size popcorn popper do I need?
The size you need is entirely dependent upon the amount of people you feed on a regular basis. Remember that the "ounce amount" relates directly to how many ounces of popcorn can be produced in one batch. For small groups of guests, the four-ounce popper may be perfect for you. If you entertain large groups you may want to buy the six- or eight-ounce popper to avoid making multiple batches all the time. If it’s just you and one other person and space is a concern, than the two-ounce machine is great. Also, take note that some four-ounce machines may not have warming trays because there is usually not much popped corn left over in the machine. For help with picking out the perfect popper, check out the following chart:
2oz Machine | - Makes 2 - 1oz servings per cycle.
- Approximately 40 servings per hour.
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4oz Machine | - Makes 4 - 1oz servings per cycle.
- Approximately 80 servings per hour.
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6oz Machine | - Makes 6 - 1oz servings per cycle.
- Approximately 120 servings per hour.
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8oz Machine | - Makes 8 - 1oz servings per cycle.
- Approximately 160 servings per hour.
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What is the popped corn equivalent of one ounce of popcorn kernels?
One ounce of uncooked kernels yields one quart of cooked corn. Another way to look at this ratio is to think of a bag of microwave popcorn. A four-ounce bag of kernels (for a four-ounce popper) yields approximately the same amount of popped corn as a bag of microwave popcorn. Depending on how much your guests love popcorn, a four-ounce serving of popcorn could serve about 8 servings. Don't forget to buy popcorn serving bags, scoop boxes or tubs. We have a complete line in our eBay store.
How long does it take to cook a batch of popcorn?
Once the kettle has heated, each batch should take approximately three to four minutes. Heat the kettle for seven to nine minutes before you are ready to pop. When it is ready, pour in the oil. Toss in a few kernels to test the "poppibility." When those pop, include the rest of the kernels. Shut your lid and let it go, until you hear the popping start to slow (three to four minutes). Dump the kettle and dig in.
What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn?
Choosing the correct oil will be your biggest decision. Oil affects the taste and the nutritional value of your popcorn. Manufacturers love coconut oil because it burns the cleanest, and supposedly tastes the best. If you are health-conscious however, you may want to steer clear of coconut oil and try canola oil (canola oil has a lower fat and cholesterol content). Other oils frequently used are sunflower, peanut and soy. The best plan for choosing oil is to research the nutritional value, then trial and error to determine which tastes best to you. The only oil to avoid is vegetable oil, because it cannot stand the heat of the kettle and tends to burn and smoke up the place, leaving a bit of a burnt taste to the popcorn. We suggest not worrying about all this and buy our pre-made Portion Packs that have everything already in it. Available in three different sizes: 4-, 6- or 8-oz. Click the following link for more details: Our eBay Store
What's the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean?
Most poppers utilize tempered glass panels, stainless steel clean-out trays, and aluminum corner posts. These surfaces can be cleaned using standard window cleaner or soap and water. To keep your kettle as clean as possible, let it cool after each use then wipe it out with a damp cloth. Cleaning kits must be used when the kettle becomes black with carbonization. Never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid because its electrical components can short out. We suggest buying the Kettle Cleaning Kit we have in our eBay store under Popcorn Supplies.
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