Popcorn kernels are not readily available in our little corner of France. Recently I stumbled across a big bag at the store and excitedly bought it, took it home, and.... didn't know what to do!

You see, I grew up in the Jiffy Pop and Hot Air Popper Era, followed by the Microwave Popcorn Years. I had no idea how to actually pop popcorn kernels on a stove.

How much oil? How many kernels? How hot?

I turned to the Internet for help and got the advice I needed in no time.

Just last week Elise at Simply Recipes wrote an outstanding post which offers a Perfect Popcorn Recipe.

Then I found that the Popcorn Board , a non-profit organization,

"that strives to raise the awareness of U.S. popcorn as a nutritious and versatile snack..."

(no, I'm not making this up) offers this advice.

My first batch was superb!

When was the last time you popped popcorn from scratch?