Popcorn Setting On The Microwave: Perfect Pops Made Easy

Popcorn Setting On The Microwave

Making popcorn in the microwave is extremely convenient – just stick a bag in and press a button, right? Well, it turns out that using the preset popcorn button on your microwave may not give you the best results. In this article, we’ll look at whether or not you should use that popcorn button for perfectly popped popcorn every time.

Using the popcorn button on your microwave seems so easy – just press a button, and strain listening for the popcorn to finish popping. However, many experts recommend never using your microwave’s popcorn button. This may seem counterintuitive – why would there be a button for popcorn if you’re not supposed to use it? As it turns out, there are a few reasons why the popcorn button often doesn’t work as well as it should.

What Is The Popcorn Button And How Does It Work?

Most microwave ovens made in the past couple of decades have a “popcorn” button. This button is a preset program that is designed to automatically cook a bag of microwave popcorn.

The microwave’s built-in sensor is supposed to listen for when the popping starts to slow down, which indicates that the popcorn is nearing completion. It then automatically stops the microwave when it senses the popping is mostly done.

Why Microwave Popcorn Bags Tell You Not To Use The Popcorn Button

If you read the instructions on just about any bag of microwave popcorn, you’ll see that they specifically instruct you not to use the popcorn button. Most bags simply tell you to microwave the bag for a set time, such as 2 minutes 30 seconds.

The main reason bags recommend not using the popcorn button is that there can be a lot of variation between different brands and types of popcorn. Microwave wattages can also vary. The sensor in your microwave is only calibrated for certain standard sizes and types of microwave popcorn.

This means that the automated popcorn button often doesn’t cook the popcorn perfectly – it might stop too soon and leave kernels unpopped, or cook too long and burn the popcorn. Following the instructions on the bag is a sure way to get it right.

Should You Ever Use The Popcorn Button?

While microwave popcorn bags tell you not to use the popcorn button, some people do swear by using it anyway. Is there any reason you might want to use that popcorn preset?

There are a couple of scenarios in which the popcorn button might work pretty well:

• Your microwave is very new or high-end, with improved popcorn sensor accuracy
• You always buy the same brand/size of popcorn bags the button is calibrated for
• You have tested the button with your popcorn and found it works perfectly

In those cases, the popcorn button may very well give you great results. You just have to be aware that it’s not completely universal or foolproof.

How To Make Microwave Popcorn Without The Button

If you don’t want to rely on your microwave’s popcorn button, the alternative is easy enough – just follow the package directions. Here is a quick guide:

• Read the instructions on your popcorn bag for the cooking time (usually 2-3 minutes)
• Make sure you place the bag flat in the center of the microwave, according to the directions
• Start microwaving on full power and listen as the popcorn pops
• Once popping slows to 2-3 seconds between pops, stop the microwave
• Carefully open the bag away from your face to vent steam
• Pour popcorn into a bowl and enjoy!

Following these steps based on the bag’s instructions gives you more control to account for variables and cook the popcorn perfectly.

Tips For Making The Best Microwave Popcorn

Aside from whether or not you use the popcorn button, some other tips can help you achieve popcorn perfection:

• Allow the popcorn to cool slightly before eating for the best texture
• Try adding a bit of oil or melted butter to freshly popped popcorn
• Use lower microwave power for a more even cook if you notice unpopped kernels
• Don’t keep unused bags of popcorn in the microwave as they could catch fire
• Open slowly and away from your face to avoid steam burns
• Shake the bag a few times during cooking to spread kernels evenly

Taking a few extra steps helps make your microwave popcorn taste like it just came fresh from the popcorn machine. Ditch the flavor dust for your seasonings!

Key Takeaways On The Popcorn Button

While it may seem confusing that your microwave has a popcorn button that the popcorn bag tells you not to use, the bottom line is:

• The preset popcorn function is calibrated for standard bag sizes and often doesn’t work perfectly
• For the most control, follow the microwave instructions on the popcorn bag
• The popcorn button can work well if you use the matching brand of popcorn
• Listen for popping too slowly to know when popcorn is done
• Let the popcorn cool a bit before eating for the best taste and texture

Even without using the popcorn button, you can make delicious popcorn in the microwave. Just use the guidelines on the bag for full control over the perfect pop!

FAQs

What does the popcorn setting on the microwave do?

The popcorn setting on the microwave is specifically designed to cook popcorn using a preset time and power setting. It detects when the popcorn is done and automatically stops the microwave.

Should I use the popcorn button on the microwave?

While the popcorn button on the microwave can be convenient, many popcorn bags say not to use it. It’s recommended to follow the popcorn instructions on the bag or consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results.

How does the popcorn button on the microwave work?

The popcorn button on the microwave is programmed to cook popcorn using a preset time and power setting. It is designed to provide the perfect popcorn by automatically adjusting the cooking time based on the amount of popcorn kernels in the bag.

What if the popcorn doesn’t pop every time you use the popcorn button on the microwave?

If the popcorn doesn’t pop every time you use the popcorn button on the microwave, you can try increasing or decreasing the cooking time slightly. It may take a few tries to find the perfect popcorn using this setting.

What does the bag say about cooking popcorn using the popcorn button on the microwave?

The instructions on every bag of popcorn may vary, but some bags recommend you use the popcorn button on the microwave for the best results. It’s always a good idea to read and follow the popcorn instructions provided on the bag.

Can I use the popcorn button on the microwave for all types of popcorn?

The popcorn button on the microwave is designed to work with most standard popcorn bags. However, there are different types of popcorn and some may require different cooking methods. It’s always best to refer to the specific instructions provided on the bag or consult the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Should I add oil when using the popcorn button on the microwave?

Most popcorn bags recommend not adding oil when using the popcorn button on the microwave. The popcorn kernels are specifically designed to pop without the need for extra oil. Adding oil may affect the cooking process and result in less desirable popcorn.

What should I do if my microwave doesn’t have a popcorn button?

If your microwave doesn’t have a popcorn button, you can still cook popcorn using manual settings. Place the bag of popcorn in the microwave and set the cooking time and power level according to the popcorn instructions on the bag. Monitor the popcorn to see when it’s done, and don’t forget to turn off the microwave when the popping stops.

Is it safe to leave the microwave unattended while cooking popcorn?

It’s generally recommended to never leave the microwave unattended while cooking popcorn. The popping process can be unpredictable, and there is a risk of the popcorn burning or the bag catching fire. It’s important to stay close to the microwave and monitor the popcorn as it cooks.