Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of oil to a large pot or deep pan
Heat the oil over medium heat
Add 2 to 3 popcorn kernels to the pot
Cover the pot with a lid
Wait until the test kernels pop
Add enough popcorn kernels to make a single layer in the pot
Cover the pot again
Shake the pot gently every few seconds
Remove from heat when popping slows to a few seconds between pops
Let the popcorn sit covered for 30 seconds
Transfer the popcorn to a bowl
Add salt or seasoning if desired