The Secret to Perfect Homemade Popcorn Is Aluminum Foil
Popcorn is more than just a snack; for me it’s a way of life. My dedication to the lifestyle means I’m always interested in learning new ways to speed up or otherwise improve my technique – and I recently found what I believe is the final piece of my ideal popcorn routine.
I learned this, of course, from YouTube. About a month after the COVID-19 quarantine, Polygon video producerBrian David Gilbert posted a video on his personal channel about “Peppercorn,” a proprietary blend that uses Lao Gang Ma’s crispy chili and gochugar to add a zesty spicy vibe.
After a couple of servings, I decided that the pepcorn was not my jam, but it doesn’t even matter, because this video is a continuous parade of home hackers with popcorn. My favorite option: instead of the usual pot lid, BDG covers the wok with a sheet of aluminum foil, which it then pierces with a knife.
It’s brilliant for me. The perforated foil acts as a built-in vent valve, allowing enough steam to build up to start bursting, then releasing any excess immediately so that it cannot drain back into the pot. Also, you don’t need to play “how ajar too ajar?” play, or use a hot, heavy saucepan that is dripping with condensation. Jiffy Pop was right from the start.
Foil hacker is compatible with any popcorn on the stove; all you have to do is replace your regular pot lid with a sheet of foil. Crimp the edges to seal it, poke through with a sharp small knife and turn on the heat. In no time, you’ll get perfectly crispy fluffy popcorn – no drips to ruin the party.