Who doesn’t crave popcorn on movie dates? Even the walk in the park isn’t complete without a box of popcorn on hand.
Hence, you make one at home on Saturday nights. However, have you considered using the best oil for popcorn?
Do you know that oil plays a significant role in making yummy and healthy popcorn? Not all oils out there are suitable for making that nutty, buttery taste.
Hence, here is a review of oils that works well with popcorn making. I have listed it into various categories, all the best in each one.
Help yourself!
1. Amish Country Popcorn – Canola Oil: The Best Canola Oil for Popcorn
2. Zoe Extra Virgin Oil: The Best Olive Oil for Popcorn
3. Wabash Valley Farms Classic Blend Popcorn Popping Oil: The Best Combination of Coconut and Corn Oil for Popcorn
4. Baja Precious Organic Sunflower Oil: The Best Sunflower Oil for Popcorn
Oil for Popcorn Just Like in the Movies
Seven (7) oils in my top list are suitable for cooking popcorn. I have chosen the best oils in the market for each type of oil. What you need to do is to pick the right oil that suits your taste. This selection is the best that came out from the highest number of positive reviews, the highest sales rate, and recommendations from sellers and offline consumers.
1. Amish Country Popcorn – Canola Oil: The Best Canola Oil for Popcorn
| Oil | Amish Country Popcorn – Canola Oil |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | 400°F |
| Health Benefits | Low in saturated fat, high in monounsaturated fat, and a good source of vitamin E |
| Taste | Neutral flavor that won’t overpower the popcorn |
This delicious, buttery flavor of canola oil is perfect for your popcorn tonight. It’s ideal for high-heat popping and holds the record of the lowest level of saturated fat among all the popcorn oils. Its mild taste can complement any type of corn kernels.
This old-fashioned Amish Country Popcorn Canola oil is available in a 16-ounce bottle at any market near you. It comes with a recipe guide, is non-GMO, and is gluten-free.
- Has the greatest buttery taste
- It already tastes good that you only need to add salt after
- It gives a nice color to the popcorn
- The butter flavor is light, so you need to use a higher amount of oil
2. Zoe Extra Virgin Oil: The Best Olive Oil for Popcorn
| Oil | Zoe Extra Virgin Oil |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | 325°F |
| Health Benefits | High in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds |
| Taste | Rich, fruity flavor that complements the popcorn |
Zoe, a Spanish Extra virgin olive oil has an equal balance of delicate fruity and buttery taste with an aroma of mixed spices. With its blend of different Spanish flavors, it gives a consistent tang that is suitable for dressing salads and vegetables. Hence, this is an excellent choice for cooking popcorn.
The high-quality ingredients, aroma, and Spanish flavor make it a perfect oil for your popcorn. Besides the health benefits it offers, olive oil brings out the best taste of your popcorn.
- Tastes fresh and delicious
- Price is reasonable
- Consistent quality
- Tightly-sealed container
- Easy pour spout
- Mild flavor
- Smells good
- It gives a slightly bitter aftertaste
- The color is a little pale
- Does not have the harvest date and the origin of the olives
3. Franklin’s Butter Flavored Coconut Oil: The Best Coconut Oil for Popcorn
| Oil | Franklin’s Butter Flavored Coconut Oil |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | 350°F |
| Health Benefits | Rich in medium-chain triglycerides, which can help with weight loss and improve brain function |
| Taste | Buttery flavor without the use of actual butter |
The 30 oz. jar of Franklin’s butter flavored coconut oil has a wide opening that makes it easier for me to access. This 100% pure coconut oil has a yummy buttery flavor that you can use as a substitute for butter. I guess this is the secret ingredient in movie theatres that sell popcorns.
You can use this oil for cooking popcorn in a pot or with your popcorn makers at home. Besides, do you know that this coconut oil has zero-fat, is gluten-free, and vegan? Works best for all who like it healthy!
- Applicable in any method of cooking popcorn
- Gives the kernels the yellow golden look
- The oil smells great, and the taste is buttery
- Gives crispy popcorns
- Reasonable price
- Has an artificial butter flavoring
- Not recommendable for topping
- Limit the use; could end up greasy
4. Snappy Pure Peanut Popcorn Oil: The Best Peanut Oil for Popcorn
| Oil | Snappy Pure Peanut Popcorn Oil |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | 450°F |
| Health Benefits | High in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as well as vitamin E and other antioxidants |
| Taste | Nutty flavor that adds a unique twist to the popcorn |
Do you like your oil to be free of artificial coloring? Then Snappy Pure Peanut Popcorn Oil is the choice for you. With zero level of trans fat-free, cholesterol-free, and low in saturated fats. It also contains antioxidants and good fats for lower cholesterol levels. This nutty-flavored oil has no coloring added for a perfectly enhanced popcorn experience.
The oil is refined, bleached, deodorized. There is no need to store at a cool temperature since it’s quite pourable at room temperature. The clear oil is also pumpable, which makes it compatible with a gallon syrup pumps. However, heads up for all allergic to peanuts; I recommend other oils for you.
Overall, it’s a healthy choice.
- The flavor is not that strong, and it makes the popcorn tastier
- The container has manufacturing and expiry date
- No need to refrigerate
- BPA free
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for high-heat
- Reasonable Price
- Has a high smoke temperature
- Bleached and deodorized
- Not recommended for those with peanut allergy
- It may have an odd smell for those not used to peanut aroma
5. Snappy Popcorn Butter Burst Soybean Oil: The Best Soybean Oil for Popcorn
| Oil | Snappy Popcorn Butter Burst Soybean Oil |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | 450°F |
| Health Benefits | Low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as well as vitamin E and other antioxidants |
| Taste | Buttery flavor that’s perfect for movie night |
This rich and buttery flavor of soybean oil is best for popping or topping in making popcorn. You can directly use it in cooking popcorn since there is no melting required. This trans-fat-free soybean oil does not need to keep at a cool temperature. You can use and pour it right away at room temperature.
The Snappy soybean oil has a mild flavor; hence, you can use it as toppings over your already popped popcorn, just like in the movies. The oil sells in gallons, but you can go for a lesser cost when you buy a case of four.
- Can be used in hot butter machines
- Really tastes like in the movies
- Gives the popcorn a good buttery flavor
- It gives the popcorn the marbled yellow color
- Reasonable price
- The size is too big, no smaller packs are available
- Not recommendable for those who cannot tolerate soy
6. Wabash Valley Farms Classic Blend Popcorn Popping Oil: The Best Combination of Coconut and Corn Oil for Popcorn
| Oil | Wabash Valley Farms Classic Blend Popcorn Popping Oil |
|---|---|
| Smoke Point | 450°F |
| Health Benefits | A combination of coconut and corn oil, providing a healthy balance of saturated and unsaturated fats, as well as vitamin E and other antioxidants |
| Taste | A classic popcorn flavor with a hint of coconut, perfect for movie night |
Perfect popcorn in three minutes! The Wabash Valley Farms Oil is a combination of coconut and corn oil for your popcorn that gives that classic taste and aroma of popcorn at home. This certified Kosher pareve oil is the healthier version of the authentic taste of popcorn you buy at movie theatres. It contains 65% less fat than pure coconut oil and has zero trans fats.
I like the small size of the jar making it so convenient to use and store. Remember that the color and consistency of the oil change based on temperature, but the taste and quality remain the same. You can easily scoop the oil out at room temperature, or you can heat the jar in warm water to liquefy. You can use this oil for popcorn, and flavoring other snacks and recipes as well.
- It has a tasty buttery flavor that pops up kernels just fine
- Smells and taste great
- Size is easy to handle
- It’s perfect for popping and topping
- There is no instruction on how much to use
- Expensive
7. Baja Precious Organic Sunflower Oil: The Best Sunflower Oil for Popcorn
The Baja sunflower oil is all-natural, expeller-pressed, non-GMO with organic sunflower oil ingredients. You can buy the oil with Pilfer-proof cap containers or jugs that are practical and of great value for high-frequency users. The extracting process of pressing the sunflower seeds is according to strict quality standards.
This high oleic oil is higher in monounsaturated fat and lowers in both saturated and polyunsaturated fats than regular sunflower oil. That’s why it’s healthy and is a highly recommended substitute for butter. It’s suitable for high-heat cooking and versatile that you can use it with other culinary needs and cosmetic applications.
- Has many uses
- Great for high-heat cooking
- Healthy substitute for butter
- High-quality oil
- The smoke point at 440 F
- The labels are not well updated which may cause confusion to customers
- Does not add any flavor
Why is oil important when making popcorn?
I know that you would say you could make popcorn with any oil you like. Literally, popcorn kernels “pops” (explodes) and expand into fluffy, crunchy snacks when heated along with oil. The popping sound is where the fun begins!
Yet, you must believe that doing so with the right oil makes a big difference in taste and in health. Some cooking methods do not require oil for popcorn. However, most popcorn lovers prefer to use oil in cooking. Why is that?
- With the use of hot oil, there is an equal distribution of heat making all the kernels pop thus eliminating burnt popcorn.
- How do you like the taste of your popcorn? Oils have different flavors. While some do not affect the taste of the popcorn, others retain their natural nutty tang that enhances the flavor of your popcorn. Therefore, if you want the same delicious flavor that you crave, you have to start learning the relativity between popcorn and oil.
The Different Types of Oil for Making Popcorn
Which one of these oils do you like most? If you already picked one, then check the review of that particular oil below.
- Canola Oil: If you are health conscious, this oil might be your pick. Extracted from grapeseed, I like the fact that it has a high level of MUFA and low saturated fats. Its taste is mild, so it can’t affect the popcorn flavor. However, this type of oil can easily be bad compared to other types.
- Olive Oil: When it comes to nutrition, olive oil always ranks first. Olive oil has a high level of unsaturated fats and a strong flavor. Because of it, the popcorn is tastier, especially with your favorite spices. Olive oil is applicable for popping and dressing.
- Coconut Oil: If you miss the familiar taste of popcorn in the movies, then you might like to try coconut oil. The nutty quality of taste coconut oil brings is what makes popcorn extra yummy. However, it has a high level of saturated fats that have been said to be bad for your health. This is the most popular popcorn oil in the market.
- Check Badge Peanut Oil: Peanut oil also have a naturally nutty taste that makes popcorn tastier. This is the best alternative to coconut oil. It has a low level of saturated fats and contains antioxidants like vitamin E. Take note though that this is not recommendable for those who have allergies to nuts.
- Check Badge Soybean Oil: Rising to be popular as cooking oil, soybean oil is high in omega 3 which is good for your health. The taste of this oil is not that prominent; hence it’s perfect for popping kernels.
- Check Badge Corn Oil: What makes the best oil for popcorn when you want a natural taste? Corn oil is an excellent choice. It has the lowest level of saturated fat and is famous for dressing.
- Check Badge Sunflower Oil: This type of oil has a mild flavor, which makes it great for popcorn making. It’s also perfect for dressing. Besides containing a low level of saturated fat, it also has PUFA and MUFA which are beneficial to our health.
Three Different Ways to Make Popcorn
1. Conduction
When you use the stovetop when cooking popcorn, it’s conduction. It applies to other ways too like using the Dutch oven pot. This is the most common and the less costly method among the three. Known as the simplest way, you can use water instead of oil.
However, this method has a high chance of getting burnt kernels when not closely monitored. I suggest adding oil to prevent burnt kernels.
I believe, in this modern world, using the microwave is the first option of those how to have one. In this method, heat transfer is possible using radiation. Oil is not necessary for this process but I little bit of oil will coat the popcorn for a better taste and aroma. Plenty of ready-for microwave popcorn with butter and flavoring is available in the market today.
2. Convection
Air cookers are an example of convection. The airflow inside the air cookers makes the kernels move with equal heat transfer. This kind of method does not need oil. However, if you need a bit of excitement in taste, I recommend using the best oil for popcorn.
3. Radiation
I believe, in this modern world, using the microwave is the first option of those how to have one. In this method, heat transfer is possible using radiation. Oil is not necessary for this process but I little bit of oil will coat the popcorn for a better taste and aroma. Plenty of ready-for microwave popcorns with butter and flavoring is available in the market today.
Read more: Best Electric Oven for Baking: Buyer Guides and Reviews
FAQ
Is popcorn popped in olive oil Good For You?
Popcorn popped in olive oil can be a healthier option compared to other oils or butter. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
It also contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. However, it’s important to note that popcorn itself is high in fiber and low in calories, but adding excessive amounts of oil, salt, or other toppings can significantly increase the calorie and fat content.
So, while popcorn popped in olive oil can be a healthy snack option, it’s important to consume it in moderation and be mindful of the toppings added.
What oil do Movie theaters use for popcorn?
Movie theaters typically use coconut oil or a coconut oil blend for popcorn. This is because coconut oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it ideal for popping large quantities of popcorn without overwhelming the taste.
Additionally, some theaters may use flavacol, a seasoning salt that enhances the flavor and aroma of the popcorn, giving it that classic movie theater taste.
Why does movie theater popcorn taste better?
Movie theater popcorn often tastes better due to the specific type of oil and seasoning that is used. Movie theaters typically use coconut oil, which has a distinct flavor that many people enjoy.
Additionally, the popcorn is often seasoned with a combination of salt and flavoring powders, which can enhance the taste. The popcorn is also popped in large machines that can create a higher volume of popcorn, leading to fresher popcorn that is less likely to be stale.
Finally, the experience of going to the movies and enjoying popcorn in a fun and exciting environment can also contribute to the perception that movie theater popcorn tastes better.
Conclusion
Now, who says oil is not important in making popcorn? When you use the best oil for popcorn, the taste and the color will change. It will add flavor, an inviting aroma, and even the golden color of your ordinary popcorn.
Have you decided what to pick? Choosing the right oil for your popcorn is easy. If you are health conscious, pick one that is high in health benefits. However, if you’re like me who loves to enjoy the full buttery taste of classic popcorn, I recommend Franklin’s Butter Flavored Coconut Oil, or pick one as you, please!
See Also: The Best Canned Chili That You Shouldn’t Miss .
Take a look at these oil for popcorn available on Amazon:
