It's Not Rocket Science

When used to the best of its ability and filled with quality kernels, this popcorn maker will create a very inexpensive no-fat crunchy treat.

What's the secret to using it successfully? There are only a few:

1. Using the included measuring cup, fill exactly to the top (one-half cup) with popcorn. This prevents the "shooting" popcorn phenomena that other reviewers mentioned. It seems to need the exact weight to keep the kernels popping at the right speed.

2. Just as when popping in the microwave, stop the machine (pull the plug) when the popping is slowing down. This also helps prevent popcorn from flying all over the place.

3. Prop up a large bowl under the spout to catch the popped corn -- I use a small box of tea bags to bring the bowl to the correct height.

4. Use quality corn kernels -- you get what you pay for! I purchase organic popcorn kernels in the bulk section of my Whole Foods Market for only 97 cents a pound. Can't get much cheaper than that -- and it tastes great!

More about the machine itself:

-It has three pieces:

a motorized base with well for kernels, a plastic hooded cover and small measuring cup that also fits into the hooded cover to heat butter if you desire.

-It has no off/on switch -- you just put in the plug or pull out the plug.

-It pops a huge bowl of popcorn in less than two minutes. Pull the plug a little early and let the popping continue.

-Cleaning is simple: was the cover and measuring cup in warm, sudsy water and dry. Use a damp paper towel to wipe out the reservoir in the base.

In my experience, this product works just as well after a year and half of steady (three times a week) use as when I first bought it, AND after hitting the tile floor twice, cracking in places and being duct-taped together.

-It's fast, cheap, and healthy. What more could you want from a $16.97 appliance?