Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil to a large pot with a lid
Add 3 to 4 popcorn kernels to the pot
Cover the pot and heat it over medium heat
Wait until the test kernels pop
Add 1/2 cup popcorn kernels to the pot
Cover the pot and shake it gently over the burner
Keep the lid slightly open to let steam escape
Continue shaking the pot occasionally
Remove the pot from the heat when popping slows to 2 to 3 seconds between pops
Pour the popcorn into a bowl
Add salt or other seasoning if desired