Those of you with popcorn machines, do you find you use them a lot, or is the clean up too much trouble and you simply fall back on microwave popcorn most of the time. What kind of maintenance is necessary and how long does it take to clean up?

P.S. There are only three of us in the family for most of the movies.

I got the West Bend 'Stir Crazy'. I have never tasted better popcorn. Of course I also got the Real Theater Popcorn popping oil from Wabash Valley Farms (very bad for you, but very tasty, I also used the Back to Basic popcorn with seasoning added). I wash it in about 5 minutes. Makes a batch for 4. Very worth every penny, it was cheap too.

http://www.amazon.com/West-Bend-6-Quart-Popcorn-Popper/dp/B00004RC6R/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/002-0608345-6821662?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1173754384&sr=8-1

I bought mine for 600 hardly use it but its worth it even just as a display piece!

Its just me...so I may use it once every 2 weeks...but when ever i have company its the icing on the cake for the home-movie experience. I do hate cleaning it...seems i always manage to cut myself (ouch). It takes me about 15 min to clean...maybe i'm too neat. 80% micro, 20% popcorn machine. I use 8oz Mega-pop. Was good investment (free). I have a pic under my profile.

Poppers are worth every penny. Pretty easy to clean and nothing completes the movie theater experience like real theater popcorn.

General consensus seems to be worth it and not that hard to clean. What kind of oil do real theaters use for poping, and what kind of oil should you use if you are worried about your cholesterol, but will still taste good. I may end up buying both and use the healthier choice most of the time, but slurge when friend come over. Where do you guys buy supplies? Best price and selection.

I've had one for about a year and a half. A 4oz machine & cart. It's great for movie night, slumber parties and visual appeal. :D
It's a little inconvenient to clean, so, I don't use it everyday. it's also good for elementary school events and fundraisers! :)
I use MegaPop with coconut oil. I think they have sunflower oil as well for a more healthy snack. I think the best part about it is the aroma and the ability to keep the popcorn warm and fresh for hours.

I have a 4 oz. as well. I usually purchase the Megapop combination packs that include the oil (beleive it is Coconut), popcorn and flavocal salt.

Agree with midlife that the best part is the smell. When I have movie nights, I pop a few batches ahead of time so that the smell is in the air when everyone gets to the house.

I got a 4ozer about a year ago and love it. Absolutely worht the cost and the small work involved. It is not a big deal to clean, sometimes I just wait and clean the next morning. Cleanup only takes about 5-10 minutes tops. I usually make 2 batches and then just warm over the next few days when in the mood. The popcorn stays fresh even a few days later.

I got the West Bend 'Stir Crazy'. I have never tasted better popcorn. Of course I also got the Real Theater Popcorn popping oil from Wabash Valley Farms (very bad for you, but very tasty, I also used the Back to Basic popcorn with seasoning added). I wash it in about 5 minutes. Makes a batch for 4. Very worth every penny, it was cheap too.

http://www.amazon.com/West-Bend-6-Quart-Popcorn-Popper/dp/B00004RC6R/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/002-0608345-6821662?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1173754384&sr=8-1

Hey, thanks for the description and link. I had actually never heard of the Stir Crazy before, but it seems like a good fit for my HT when it's finished. It's small enough to fit in the kitchenette cabinets, and the price is definitely right. :)

Is a 4oz unit big enough for three people or do you have to make multiple batches? We normally will eat two bags of microwave popcorn. What about when you have another family over?

It looks like I will be adding another out of budget item to my theater project. Oh well, I guess you can't take it with you when you die.

Never heard of Stir Crazy? Wow. That was one of the very first popcorn maker models on the market if memory serves (back in the 80's?)

A 4 oz machine is perfect for 3 people. :D And more! :)
Just the other night I had a kid's movie night!
Used MegaPop brand popcorn/oil/salt kits. The packs were sized for 6oz machines. I have a 4oz. I made 6 batches, one right after the other. The machine was about 2/3s full. I let the popcorn sit on the warmer in the machine, stirring every once in a while, for about an hour and a half. 15 kids and one movie later, all the popcorn was gone! :D Success!!!!! That's 36 ounces of popcorn or about 12 bags of microwave popcorn! :p

so, a 4oz like mine can feed 2-15 people.

here's the little guy when it's all nice and clean! :)

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g273/MidLife_2006/Popper1.gif?t=1173814110

Poppers are absolutely worth it. They really add to the experience and produce better popcorn than the old microwave. Anytime friends or family come over, the popper is running.

Great! I'm contemplating getting a popcorn machine, I don't have a dedicated home theater room but I wouldn't mind one in my living room! Maybe I'll take the plunge and buy one.

General consensus seems to be worth it and not that hard to clean. What kind of oil do real theaters use for poping, and what kind of oil should you use if you are worried about your cholesterol, but will still taste good. I may end up buying both and use the healthier choice most of the time, but slurge when friend come over. Where do you guys buy supplies? Best price and selection.

A majority of the movie theaters, especially the big 3, are using Coconut Oil to pop with. If you have a theater that has opened within the past 12-18 months, you will probably find they are using coconut oil. Coconut oil pops the "cleanest" out of all the other oils and this helps prolong the life of the equipment. It is also the oil most people associate "movie theater" popcorn with. Theaters that have some of the older style poppers usually use either coconut, corn oil and in rare circumstances Canola oil is used.

The only differences will be the type of salt used. Flavacol is very popular among theaters and is what you will find in the megapop kits.

Popcorn machines are a great addition to any home theater and the good news is.... A powerbuy is right around the corner!!

Ditto, there is nothing like a popper.

A 4 oz machine is perfect for 3 people. :D And more! :)
Just the other night I had a kid's movie night!
Used MegaPop brand popcorn/oil/salt kits. The packs were sized for 6oz machines. I have a 4oz. I made 6 batches, one right after the other. The machine was about 2/3s full. I let the popcorn sit on the warmer in the machine, stirring every once in a while, for about an hour and a half. 15 kids and one movie later, all the popcorn was gone! :D Success!!!!! That's 36 ounces of popcorn or about 12 bags of microwave popcorn! :p

so, a 4oz like mine can feed 2-15 people.

here's the little guy when it's all nice and clean! :)

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g273/MidLife_2006/Popper1.gif?t=1173814110


I would say the 4 oz. is a great size for a small family but, in my experience, you will need to make multiple batches. It usually takes two batches for me an a couple of friends during a movie with two of us eating large buckets and one eating a smaller bucket. One batch usually works just great for two.

That said, it is simple as pie to make a second or additional batches. Simple as putting the oil in the already hot kettle and adding the corn. Takes about 3 minutes a batch after the kettle is hot.

There are a couple things I would look for in a popper if you get one:

1. Get one with a Heater - this is a must
2. Old Maid trays are a requirement in my opinion (I don't have one but wish I did)

Shan

I moved from a stovetop popper to a stir-crazy to a standalone dedicated popper. Regardless of how the popcorn is made, it's absolutely essential to use good corn. The difference between Redenbacher microwave popcorn and fresh popcorn from Megapop pre-packs is huge.

Of all the techniques, the dedicated popper creates the most old maids (due to blow-out during popping). It's also the hardest to clean, but a bit of water in the kettle does make it merely a 5 minute wiping chore. I've found the built-in heater to be great... it makes next-day leftover popcorn a delightful reality if you don't mind waiting for it all to heat up. The old-maid tray hasn't worked out well, I think I'd prefer a scoop that has holes in it instead.

Overall I'd almost rather have the stir-crazy again. No mess, no fuss. Unless you want the standalone machine as a display piece, or you need to pop enough corn for more than 4 people at a time on a regular basis, it's overkill. One 6oz pre-pack is enough for two popcorn hogs, or four normal people. Having the option of leaving corn overnight and making several consecutive batches in advance is why I'll keep the standalone popper though.

I still would rather pop the good quality corn with coconut oil in a large pot on the stovetop any day rather than make the microwave garbage. How you make it is a matter of convenience, the corn itself is the difference.

Alright, I am totally sold on a 4 oz unit most likely with heating tray and old maid tray. Where do most of you buy the supplies and what do you buy, megapop? Do you buy the bulk corn, or just prepackaged stuff. Lastly, what about the buckets and bags, which sounds like the ultimate "icing on the cake" for the theater experience.

Man, I am already dreaming of Theater night at my house where my 5 and 3 year old nieces come over to watch some killer new Disney movies on my 106" 1080p screen complete with real movie popcorn. Also sounds like a great night with friends that starts out with cards and drinks and then ends in watching a killer movie in Blue Ray or HD DVD. I said I wasn't going to get excited before construction was complete, but too late now.

just do some google/froogle searching for movie theater type stuff like popcorn tubs or cups. I also get movie theater drink cups too. :p
There are many here that like the Megapop brand popcorn. There are 'samplers' you can get on the internet for trying out some popcorn.
personally, I would get the oil/corn/salt kits prepackaged. it's more convenient and the bulk bags can go stale if not sealed very tightly. The worst enemy to popcorn is stale or dry corn. It needs the moisture in the kernal to "pop"
If you are new to popping corn in a machine, I suggest making a few trial batches alone first, out in the garage. :cool: Some machines come with a starter pack, but, beware, mine was outdated and stale and I was disappointed. When I purchase new corn, it was fab! There's a timing that comes with practice. If you don't empty that kettle at the right time, things will burn. Enjoy! :)

Sam's Club or from Sams online

Thanks to this thread I just ordered a pop corn popper. I have been so use to the microwave kind that I never gave thought to a popper. Growing up, we use to pop corn in a skillet with oil. Oh well, thanks.

I ordered my corn from HT-Express.com (hope I am allowed to post that, if not, please delete it with my apologies). I usually try and order cups and stuff at the same time because their shipping price is high. They have always shipped quickly.

As for popping your corn, it is really, really simple with a popper. Simply turn on the heater and motor. Add oil and 2-3 kernels into the kettle. When those three kernels pop, pour the rest of the corn and salt into the kettle and close everything up. Dump it when it stops popping (kind of like you do with Microwave corn). Never had any issues with burning or significant under-popping. Always turns out great.

Glad to here you are going with a popper. And congrats jbug on your decision too. You won't regret it.

Shan

Cherokee180c I have purchased popcorn supplies/theater supplies from these 3 websites in the recent past (within last year or so) with satisfactory results:

http://www.ht-express.com
http://www.onlinehometheateraccessories.com
http://www.stargatecinema.com

All three seem to ship promptly to me in the Mid-Atlantic area.

http://www.htmarket.com has lots of stuff too, but I haven't ordered from that.

Even though I have a 4oz Paragon popcorn machine, I usually get the portion packs for the 6ounce machine cause it really costs about the same. Alot of old maids, but less burning than the 4oz packs.

Don't forget buttery-flavored topping! :D

8 oz paragon. just me and two labs, who could eat their weight in popcorn if allowed. just approaching the machine throws them into a tizzy. my movies (when i eat popcorn) consists of: few kernals for me; handful for them; repeat til all gone. they sit and drool at my feet while waiting for their turn. I get megapop from ht express or stargate.

I've had a 4oz GM fun pop for a year or two now and worth every penny.

1st, the all ss kettle is very easy to clean up. And the interior of the unit itself easily cleans up with a damp paper towel.

2nd, nothing beats the taste. I have never gotten use to microwave popcorn, so this is all I eat.

3rd, I use it quite a bit. There are four of us and I make popcorn with it for us, probably 4-5 times a month. Plus any time we have company, I end up making some. I built a bar next to my theater room, so even if we are just in the bar talking, it is the perfect snack.

A majority of the movie theaters, especially the big 3, are using Coconut Oil to pop with. If you have a theater that has opened within the past 12-18 months, you will probably find they are using coconut oil. Coconut oil pops the "cleanest" out of all the other oils and this helps prolong the life of the equipment. It is also the oil most people associate "movie theater" popcorn with. Theaters that have some of the older style poppers usually use either coconut, corn oil and in rare circumstances Canola oil is used.

The only differences will be the type of salt used. Flavacol is very popular among theaters and is what you will find in the megapop kits.

Popcorn machines are a great addition to any home theater and the good news is.... A powerbuy is right around the corner!!

Can you tell us who will be having the power buy?

Real popcorn popped with oil is key. I'd rather eat styrofoam packing popcorn than microwave...

I actually have a miniature 2oz popper on my bartop in the HT room just for effect and movie nights (1 batch per person is usually sufficient) and a Stir Crazy for more casual day to day use which I keep in the kitchen. The only thing I don't care for about the mini popper is that it doesn't have a warmer or old maid tray. What I like about the small 2oz size though is that there's very little waste, and it keeps me from eating too much popcorn without making additional batches. If it's there...I'll eat it.
http://www.amazon.com/Kettle-Popcorn-Maker-Popper-Machine/dp/B000FSQF1A

I have used various pots on the stove, including the Whirleypop, which has a stirring mechanism, and the quality of popcorn all seems to be about the same.
(the whirleypop is a PITA though to get the popped corn out of the pot...I didn't care for it)

Cherokee180c I have purchased popcorn supplies/theater supplies from these 3 websites in the recent past (within last year or so) with satisfactory results:

http://www.ht-express.com
http://www.onlinehometheateraccessories.com
http://www.stargatecinema.com

All three seem to ship promptly to me in the Mid-Atlantic area.

http://www.htmarket.com has lots of stuff too, but I haven't ordered from that.

Even though I have a 4oz Paragon popcorn machine, I usually get the portion packs for the 6ounce machine cause it really costs about the same. Alot of old maids, but less burning than the 4oz packs.

Don't forget buttery-flavored topping! :D

Thanks for the references as I will check out all those sites. I am working with Ken from stargate on other purchases as he has a very good selection of stuff. He is a great guy and giving me good advice. Glad to hear others are happy with his service too. I hope I am not spoiling anything, but Ken hinted the other day when I was checking on my order that a power buy is coming soon, but not sure when. Actually that is one of the things that prompted all my questions as a popper was most definitely out of my original budget, but it is too late now, as you guys have convinced me that it is definitely money well spent.

This is probably a dumb question, but how do you apply the buttery topping, is it all mixed together or do you melt it separately and then drip it on? Is there anything on the poppers to melt the butter?

I don't know about anyone else, but since I use bulk coconut oil and popcorn in my machine, I don't find a need to add a buttery topping. The coconut oil adds a lot of flavor and...uhm...fat already :)

We love mine. It goes well with my theater. I clean it after each use. I use Orville 8oz and a couple other types in 4oz packages. Everyone gets excited when I start popping it... :)

We love mine. It goes well with my theater. I clean it after each use. I use Orville 8oz and a couple other types in 4oz packages. Everyone gets excited when I start popping it... :)

I mix a couple of different type packages. For the 1st batch I do a 4oz megapop kit. Then I follow up w/a 6oz Orville. Then depending on much I want to make I switch every other batch. Then after popping, I mix everything together then let dry out 15 minutes or so. Yummy.....the difference packages give a variance to the color and taste that I like.

I use caramel flavored glaze pop every once in a while. :D :D :D

I am going to the Gold Medal open house tomorrow :D :D :D
LOTS of popcorn and flavorings!!!!
(also funnel cakes, slushies, giant pretzels, hot dogs, etc)

I'm going HUNGRY!!!!! :p

I am going to the Gold Medal open house tomorrow :D :D :D
LOTS of popcorn and flavorings!!!!
(also funnel cakes, slushies, giant pretzels, hot dogs, etc)

I'm going HUNGRY!!!!! :p

Pam,

When you go you will run into two guys I work with up here in Cincinnati, Tom Petre and Mike Sidoti.. tell them I said hi... heck tell Mike you are a Michigan Wolverines fan!!! lol

Pam,

You are lucky they come to your area!
Eat a lot for me.

We have a 6oz Contempo unit and it gets used quite frequently when the kids have their friends over. Easy to use, easy to clean, excellent popcorn! No buyers remorse here.

Regarding the Gold Medal Open House, what type of deals can normally be found there?

We have a 6oz Contempo unit and it gets used quite frequently when the kids have their friends over. Easy to use, easy to clean, excellent popcorn! No buyers remorse here.

Regarding the Gold Medal Open House, what type of deals can normally be found there?

Can you elaborate on the contempo unit as that is the exact unit that I am looking at, although in the 4oz model. Is the kettle removable for easy cleaning?

Pam,

Please bring back samples for all of your AVS Forum family members! :)

Cherokee180c,
The kettle is hinged so while it is not removable it does swing down for easy cleanup. Normal wipe down with paper towels is fairly easy. I normally have to pop two batches when my kids have their friends over. When it is just the family one batch will suffice. The contempo style blends in with my overall theme. Got it from Stargate Cinema, had a problem in shipping that confirmed the cliche "What Can Brown Do TO You"... and it was addressed very quickly by Ken. So if you are looking for a supplier you might look into his offerings.

The Paragon kettles can be removed for a more thorough cleaning (but per the instruction manual do not immerse it in water or use water on the kettle at all).

Here are the steps for kettle removal:
1. Uplug the unit
2. Unplug the pigtail from the socket located in the chasis of the machine
3. Pull the clip off the hinge pin
4. Pull the hing pin out of the kettle hanger

Normal cleaning after each use:
Wipe, with a soft towel or cloth, excess oil from exterior and interior of kettle as often as possible

After a while, you may get a carbon buildup that can be removed using Paragon's Carbon Off cleaner. But under normal home use this will take a while to build up. This is similar to the buildup that happens on anodized aluminum cookware.

-Ken

Thanks Ken for the correction on the kettle. I guess I would have known that if I read the manual when I got it. (grin) You can probably guess my method of cleaning then can't you?

The Paragon kettles can be removed for a more thorough cleaning (but per the instruction manual do not immerse it in water or use water on the kettle at all).


-Ken

Is the kettle stainless steel? I curious as why you would not use water. I use water on mine all the time. Warm water really cleans out the oil. But I want to make sure I'm not doing anything wrong. I don't immerse it, but use the sprayer in the sink. I have a GM maching BTW. Guess, I'll dig out the manual.

Those are instructions, right out of the manual, for the Paragon kettles. They are made of anodized aluminum. The GM Kettles are stainless steel on the outside.

Ken

Pam,

When you go you will run into two guys I work with up here in Cincinnati, Tom Petre and Mike Sidoti.. tell them I said hi... heck tell Mike you are a Michigan Wolverines fan!!! lol

Yeah, when is Cincinnati having an open house? I work right across the street from you guys! Now if I could only afford one of your poppers! :p Or maybe you could give one away as a door prize... ;)

Hi to all!

Just got back from the Open House (I am stuffed!). I have some caramel Glaze Pop to try out in my machine. I can't wait! http://www.gmpopcorn.com/products/Caramel-Kettle-Cheese-Corn/Glaze-Pop.php Coach, I met Mike today. Tom was busy in the back with customers. I didn't see the Michigan quote earlier - that would have been fun to tease him about! Please speak to him when he returns because I did tell him I knew one of the Cincinnati guys (but I only know you as Coach)!

If the caramel glaze works for me, then I'll try the chocolate - I hear it's awesome (especially when mixed with the caramel)! BTW - for the colored/glazed popcorn, Gold Medal makes a Mega Pop pack with white coconut oil - that way you get the true color of the glaze. It runs almost $3 more per case. Worth it if you are doing a school color thing!

Those are instructions, right out of the manual, for the Paragon kettles. They are made of anodized aluminum. The GM Kettles are stainless steel on the outside.

Ken

Well, I looked in the manual of mine and didn't see anything about not using water. It did say to just wipe it out. But while the kettle comes out of the popper, "just wiping" is not as easy as it sounds as there are a few little spaces that the oil gets to that wiping cannot reach. But squirting with warm water gets it all out.

Of course the unit has a heating element in it, so I can see not putting it totally under water to soak or anything like that.

Maybe Coach can chime in when he has the time!

I don't know about anyone else, but since I use bulk coconut oil and popcorn in my machine, I don't find a need to add a buttery topping. The coconut oil adds a lot of flavor and...uhm...fat already :)

I used to die for the 'butter' stuff at the theaters, and when I found the lou-ann's stuff I thought I had died and gone to oozy glistening buttery heaven.

Now I find that as I enjoy the 'movie popcorn' more often, the butter is just overkill. I like to hit the finished batch with a bit more flavacol/salt, and that's more than enough buttery flavor for me.

Still, I'll put a little bit of topping on once in a while... just because I can. :)

Hi to all!

Just got back from the Open House (I am stuffed!). I have some caramel Glaze Pop to try out in my machine. I can't wait! http://www.gmpopcorn.com/products/Caramel-Kettle-Cheese-Corn/Glaze-Pop.php Coach, I met Mike today. Tom was busy in the back with customers. I didn't see the Michigan quote earlier - that would have been fun to tease him about! Please speak to him when he returns because I did tell him I knew one of the Cincinnati guys (but I only know you as Coach)!

If the caramel glaze works for me, then I'll try the chocolate - I hear it's awesome (especially when mixed with the caramel)! BTW - for the colored/glazed popcorn, Gold Medal makes a Mega Pop pack with white coconut oil - that way you get the true color of the glaze. It runs almost $3 more per case. Worth it if you are doing a school color thing!

Pam,

The carmel glaze pop makes regular popcorn tastes like doo doo. I'm using this version of the carmel glaze pop.

http://www.concessionstands.com/site/large_images/2534.jpg

Aren't they the same thing? :confused:
I use the Glaze pop in the milk container and it works great! I don't add any salt or other flavorings. I use Megapop and pour off the flavacol and discard it. It's okay to use regular coconut oil with the caramel, but, you should use white oil for the other flavors. Tastes kinda like Cracker-Jack.
The only problem is trying to get an even coating on all the corn. :(

Yeah, when is Cincinnati having an open house? I work right across the street from you guys! Now if I could only afford one of your poppers! :p Or maybe you could give one away as a door prize... ;)

We had our open house today and yesterday...:(

If you are serious about wanting to order a popper, PM me and I will give you the name and number of the rep who can help you out. I am sure we can still work out a show special deal..

Aren't they the same thing? :confused:
I use the Glaze pop in the milk container and it works great! I don't add any salt or other flavorings. I use Megapop and pour off the flavacol and discard it. It's okay to use regular coconut oil with the caramel, but, you should use white oil for the other flavors. Tastes kinda like Cracker-Jack.
The only problem is trying to get an even coating on all the corn. :(

Yes the pouches are the same thing as the cartons. The pouches are nice for those who like to have everything portioned out correctly.. Plus we only offer the original glaze pop in the pouches. Everything else is available by carton only. I know you can get all of the flavors over at Stargate Cinema....

Yes the pouches are the same thing as the cartons. The pouches are nice for those who like to have everything portioned out correctly.. Plus we only offer the original glaze pop in the pouches. Everything else is available by carton only. I know you can get all of the flavors over at Stargate Cinema....
That's great to know, because I don't want to have to buy an entire case if I like it!

Can you tell us who will be having the power buy?


Any Power Buy update??? Credit card is in hand....

I tried the caramel Glaze pop tonight and it was delicious!

As for cleaning, normally I just wipe out the kettle with a hot damp cloth. Tonight I used the Heat N Kleen that Gold Medal puts out for their kettles. I have had my popper for a couple of years and this is only the third time I have used this cleaner. Very easy and you don't have to use it very often.

microwave > *

:)

I bought an 8oz contempo pop from Ken at Stargate ! He was great to deal with ! I am so glad I bought the 8oz as I do two batches for seven people and have a little left over. I also bought an ove glove as it is easy to get burned.

The popper has added a new dimension to our theater! Everyone gets so excited when I tell them to help themselves to any thing they like ! Johnahtan ;)

http://johnathan.smugmug.com/photos/137439152-L.jpg

Just ordered mine yesterday direct from Paragon. Suppose to be here tomorrow. I can't wait to plug her in and watch her go. Fresh Popcorn, Is this heaven (no It's Iowa)

If you have fresh popcorn, even Iowa is like heaven. ;)

I tried the caramel Glaze pop tonight and it was delicious!

As for cleaning, normally I just wipe out the kettle with a hot damp cloth. Tonight I used the Heat N Kleen that Gold Medal puts out for their kettles. I have had my popper for a couple of years and this is only the third time I have used this cleaner. Very easy and you don't have to use it very often.

Pam how did you make your caramel Glaze pop? I have tried 3 batches and it always turns out kind of bitter. It coats well and comes out nice and crunchy and smells great! Everythings great except the taste. It seems like its not sweet enough like you would think caramel corn would taste. It has a strong molasses taste. I keep thinking I am doing something wrong.

Thanks
Craig

I emailed Ken to inquire about some of his popcorn machines and asked when they were going to have another powerbuy. To my surprise, Ken informed me the powerbuy will begin either later this afternoon or tomorrow. Hang on folks, from what I hear, he is adding a lot of different machines and different toppings to the mix. I can smell and taste this one.... YUM!!!! :D Get your credit cards out... I can't wait!!!

Belusch

I know this goes against the authentic theater but personally I prefer using my whirly popper with the crank handle. These poppers cost $20 -30 and work awesome. I grew up with popcorn cooked this way and absolutely love it. The key is to use white popcorn kernels ( you don't get the hulls like you do on yellow popcorn and it taste better) You can make it anyway you like with great results, my daughters favorite is kettle corn. Once you get the hang of it you can do mutiple batches in no time.

Pam how did you make your caramel Glaze pop? I have tried 3 batches and it always turns out kind of bitter. It coats well and comes out nice and crunchy and smells great! Everythings great except the taste. It seems like its not sweet enough like you would think caramel corn would taste. It has a strong molasses taste. I keep thinking I am doing something wrong.

Thanks
Craig
First, are you using this Glaze Pop? http://www.gmpopcorn.com/products/Caramel-Kettle-Cheese-Corn/Glaze-Pop.php
Second, are you removing the flavacol (salt) out of your Mega Pop packets?
Third, you may have a bad batch of Glaze Pop.

That's about all I can think of that would make it bad. Anyone else with ideas on this one?

I know this goes against the authentic theater but personally I prefer using my whirly popper with the crank handle. These poppers cost $20 -30 and work awesome. I grew up with popcorn cooked this way and absolutely love it. The key is to use white popcorn kernels ( you don't get the hulls like you do on yellow popcorn and it taste better) You can make it anyway you like with great results, my daughters favorite is kettle corn. Once you get the hang of it you can do mutiple batches in no time.
I had one of those. It broke within a year. Then I went to the Stir Crazy ($19 on sale - no crank to turn - it does it when you plug it in AND you can take it straight to the theater - no stove involved). I loved that thing. I still have it, even though I have a Gold Medal machine now and use it all the time!

Totally worth it!! We don't use it when its just us but when we do movie nights like tonight we bust it out!! Speaking of which I just got my first shipment of popcorn from Ken at Stargate (the prepacked 6 oz Megapop) and popped some up for the Rocky Balboa showing in the old home theater this evening and dayuuummm is it good. WAY better than my previous crappy attempts!!

Just waiting for the guests to arrive but I am all set now!

Thanks Ken!!

Greg

I know this goes against the authentic theater but personally I prefer using my whirly popper with the crank handle. These poppers cost $20 -30 and work awesome. I grew up with popcorn cooked this way and absolutely love it. The key is to use white popcorn kernels ( you don't get the hulls like you do on yellow popcorn and it taste better) You can make it anyway you like with great results, my daughters favorite is kettle corn. Once you get the hang of it you can do mutiple batches in no time.


We just got one with a large supply of Real Theater pouches. It is so much better than microwave. Have to watch the fat.

Does anybody have some suggestions for good popcorn with a reasonable fat content that still pops and tastes good?

Obviously the oil is the problem to the ol' waistline, not so much the corn...experiment to find the least amount of oil you can use that still produces popcorn to your liking. In my stir crazy, 2 tablespoons of oil per 1/2 cup of kernels is more than adequate. Physically measuring it out is key. It's still not "good" for you but it's better than just dumping oil in haphazardly. I've never used the premeasured portion packs, I'm sure they're delicious and convenient but my guess is that they're not kind to a diet.

The instructions for cleaning my popper have me filling the kettle with water and then running the machine until the water heats up and then the plexiglass walls steam up, then they wipe down with a dry paper towel and are clean. After it cools down, I wipe out the kettle.

Love love LOVE my 4 oz popper. You can probably get the same result with a stir crazy on the stove (as long as you have to right ingredients) but I love being able to actually have the popper to display as well as just adding the ingredients and letting it go.

Not hard to clean at all. I use mine every week (during football season) or every other week. I actually don't clean it all that often. Haven't gotten sick yet!

One thing I find that is really nice about owning a popper is that I can pop a few batches and just eat off of it for days. Yeah, it gets a little stale but all I have to do is turn on the tray warmer and it crisps right up!

Love love LOVE my 4 oz popper. You can probably get the same result with a stir crazy on the stove (as long as you have to right ingredients) but I love being able to actually have the popper to display as well as just adding the ingredients and letting it go.

Not hard to clean at all. I use mine every week (during football season) or every other week. I actually don't clean it all that often. Haven't gotten sick yet!

One thing I find that is really nice about owning a popper is that I can pop a few batches and just eat off of it for days. Yeah, it gets a little stale but all I have to do is turn on the tray warmer and it crisps right up!

It is very unlikely that you will get sick. Popcorn is not a food source that has any critical temperatures or handling requirements unless its for commercial purposes. If it gets stale, probably still won't hurt you but recommend that you pop some fresh stuff. As for cleaning out your kettle, thats always encouraged but again, its not something that is a source for bacteria unless you are using some of the buttery flavors and such. General sanitation and proper handling of the food source will allow you years of enjoyment without the fear of getting sick from one of your batches... Sorry guys, had to turn my hat as I work in the health regulatory field.

It is very unlikely that you will get sick. Popcorn is not a food source that has any critical temperatures or handling requirements unless its for commercial purposes. If it gets stale, probably still won't hurt you but recommend that you pop some fresh stuff. As for cleaning out your kettle, thats always encouraged but again, its not something that is a source for bacteria unless you are using some of the buttery flavors and such. General sanitation and proper handling of the food source will allow you years of enjoyment without the fear of getting sick from one of your batches... Sorry guys, had to turn my hat as I work in the health regulatory field.

Good to know as I don't clean mine very often. All that's in the kettle is oil, salt, and popcorn. The buttery stuff is put on later--heck, that alone might make me sick (but in the good, buttery way).

I may not clean it after each use but I always try to remember to clear out the kettle as sometimes a popped piece of corn is stuck under the rod and it burns when you start up the machine again! Horrible!

Not hard at all I got my Popcorn Machine at BJs and it works good and easy to clean up.
the unit was only 189.00 I have pictures of it on my web site htnuts.c0m/dht

Until I can afford a big popcorn popper, I have been using a WhirleyPop Stovetop Popcorn Popper. And of the stuff I have tried, Ellis' Famous Blue Ribbon Theatre Quality Popcorn is the best so far. It tastes like the popcorn they used to have at the movies back in the 1970s and 1980s. Their 4 ounce POP-PAK is designed to work in stove top popcorn poppers like the WhirleyPop. Each POP-PAK comes with everything you need including the popcorn salt. I also have a box of FLAVACOL Popcorn Salt for the times when I don't have the good stuff.

Besides not having the extra money and not having the room until now, I also was hesitant about getting a movie style popcorn maker since it seemed like they might be hard to clean. If people here agree that the machines are fairly easy to clean, I might put it higher on my list of things to buy.

I leave my dirty just wipe out the kettle. Actually I leave popcorn in it all the time and it tastes great. Get a highend model as it is rare that you can buy anything that is made in the USA. Check out flea bay as you might snag a good one not used much. As far as size goes I would go with a larger kettle as you can always use smaller packs. I have an 8 oz machine though use 6 oz packs frequently

I have a 6oz Metropolitan popper and it works great. Cleanup isn't bad, I just wipe out with the inside of the kettle with a damp rag if I'm changing flavors of the popcorn I'm popping. Definately worth having a popcorn machine!

Well it's been months since I posted in this thread.
I have a four ounce popper pictured on page one of this thread. A GREAT machine made in the USA. I guess i've had it two years or more. Only one regret. Too small. :(
I'm thinking of donating to a school and upgrading to an 8 ounce machine.
:D
I make popcorn each week (Glaze Pop is the favorite) for sporting events on the weekend. I package it up in 8" X 24" poly bags.
I need more capacity!!! :D
Only thing preventing me is that I'd need a bigger cart, too. They are almost the price of the machine!

I have been wanting to buy a popcorn machine for the last two years and after reading this forum, I decided to take the plunge. We currently have a stir crazy and use it 3 -4 times/week. I looked at a variety of popcorn machines yesterday and was ready to purchase a Paragon 4oz machine for $329 with free shipping. Then I found a site on ebay that sold the 8oz Princeton popper from The Great American Popcorn Company for $180 + $45 for shipping.

Here are the features of the machine:

Deluxe model with 3 position control switch
Switches include: spot light warmer, stirrer and pot heater
Tempered Glass (All Glass)
Warming Deck
All metal gearbox
Built-in warmer light
Old-maid tray
860 watts (Commercial Quality and Certified)
Machine is 24"L x 18"W X 26"H
3 year warranty on all parts

Has anyone purchased a popcorn machine from this company? Any advise would be appreciated.

Has anyone purchased a popcorn machine from this company? Any advise would be appreciated.

There was a thread on them here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=878500

It seemed to be the consensus was that they are good for the price.

Thanks for the reply. I appreciate you providing me with the link.
Thanks.

Mitch

I love my popcorn machine.
The key is to pour in your oil. Then I throw in four or five kernals into the kettle. Once they pop, I pour in my popcorn and salt mixture. Works awesome.

As far as the cleaning goes, I don't clean mine like I should. Probobly about every 7 or 8 uses. About once every two or three weeks. I do wipe down the tray before each use. They are a mess to clean but totaly worth the effort. Once in a while we just fire up a bag of microwave corn, but I believe I have read microwave popcorn is worse for you than using cocnut oil so I would rather eat from the machine.

Craig

My 10 yr old daughter came up with a great way to create different flavors of popcorn. Mix about 1/3 of a package of Good Seasons salad dressing mix in with you normal popcorn mix for some great results. So far we have only tried Garlic Parmesian, which is real good next we plan to try Ranch. Pat

That's interesting with the different flavors like Ranch and stuff. I'm not fond of the sprinkles you put on popcorn like white cheddar, but I would be open to trying new things. Let me know how it works out.

I love my popcorn machine.
The key is to pour in your oil. Then I throw in four or five kernals into the kettle. Once they pop, I pour in my popcorn and salt mixture. Works awesome.


Craig

I wish I could figure out a good way to pour in my coconut oil. Mine manages to stay JUST below the melting point... so I have to scoop it. Then I have to try to scrape it out of the measuring spoon (usually with my fingers, which are of course warm enough to start melting the oil, making my hands a mess).

Instead of measuring spoon, use small cookie dough scoop.

Instead of measuring spoon, use small cookie dough scoop.

;)

Dam mun! :(
Cheaper than I got two years ago!
http://www.ht-accessories.com/Theater-Pop-Popcorn-Machine--Free-Shipping_p_10-82.html

But, i would offer this advise - go big! I bought a 4oz from Stargategate.cinema.com two years ago and I wish I bought a 8 oz instead. :(
Paragon makes a really great product and I think it's USA made. I really love my 4oz paragon machine. Still works GREAT!!!

how many bags does 4oz make?

A four ounce makes four ounces of popcorn. (Mine actually makes 6 ounces, cause I use the six ounce packs :) )
Most "microwave" bags are 3 or 3.5 ounces of popcorn.
When you get it going, you can make about 4 ounces of popcorn in your machine every three minutes or so. About the same speed as using a microwave. The machine will also store many, many batches. I've never really counted, though. I suppose the machine will hold about 8-10 batches or so.
I want to get a bigger machine because I make about six batches each time I use it and would like to make less batches. I package in six ounce bags, about four of them, each Saturday. :D One White Cheddar, One Regular butter flavour and two Glaze Pop! :D

Instead of measuring spoon, use small cookie dough scoop.

Ah, good tip! I'll have to give that a shot.