Add 1-2 tablespoons of oil to a large, heavy-bottomed pot.

Place the pot over medium heat and add a few test kernels to check if the oil is hot enough.

Once these test kernels pop, remove them and add the rest of the popcorn kernels in a single layer.

Cover the pot with the lid and shake the pot gently as the kernels begin to pop. This keeps them moving, ensuring even popping without burning.

As the popping slows to about 2 seconds between pops, remove the pot from the heat.