Add enough cooking oil to the stockpot so that the bottom of the pot is covered. Place the stockpot on the stove and set to medium/high heat.

Once the oil has melted, add popcorn kernels to evenly cover the bottom of the stockpot.

When the kernels begin to sizzle, secure the lid to the stockpot.

When you hear the kernels begin to pop, intermittently slide & shake the stockpot while securely holding the lid in place with oven mitts on your hands. The goal of this is to make sure the popcorn doesn't burn (and not to burn your hands !)

When you hear the popping slow significantly, remove the stockpot from the heat. Remove the lid when the popping has stopped.

If you are choosing to use melted butter as a topping, begin melting the butter while the popcorn cools.

Add the melted butter, salt and any other toppings over the popcorn in the stockpot and shake vigorously to evenly distribute.

Serve in your desired bowl and enjoy!