The size you need is entirely dependent upon the amount of people you feed on a regular basis. Remember that the "ounce amount" relates directly to how many ounces of popcorn can be produced in one batch. For small groups of guests, the four-ounce popper may be perfect for you. If you entertain large groups you may want to buy the six- or eight-ounce popper to avoid making multiple batches all the time. Also, take note that four-ounce machines generally do not have warming trays because there is usually no popped corn left over in the machine. For help with picking out the perfect popper, check out the following chart:
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4oz Machine
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| 6oz Machine |
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| 8oz Machine |
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| 12oz Machine |
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One ounce of uncooked kernels yields one quart of cooked corn. Another way to look at this ratio is to think of a bag of microwave popcorn. A four-ounce bag of kernels (for a four-ounce popper) yields approximately the same amount of popped corn as a bag of microwave popcorn. Depending on how much your guests love popcorn, a four-ounce serving of popcorn could serve about 8 servings. Don't forget to buy serving popcorn scoop boxes: http://www.familyrecroom.com/scoop-cardboard-fresh-popcorn-container-p-98.html
How long does it take to cook a batch of popcorn?
Once the kettle has heated, each batch should take approximately three to four minutes. Heat the kettle for seven to nine minutes before you are ready to pop. When it is ready, pour in the oil. Toss in a few kernels to test the "poppibility." When those pop, include the rest of the kernels. Shut your lid and let it go, until you hear the popping start to slow (three to four minutes). Dump the kettle and dig in.
Choosing the correct oil will be your biggest decision. Oil affects the taste and the nutritional value of your popcorn. Manufacturers love coconut oil because it burns the cleanest, and supposedly tastes the best. If you are health-conscious however, you may want to steer clear of coconut oil and try canola oil (canola oil has a lower fat and cholesterol content). Other oils frequently used are sunflower, peanut and soy. The best plan for choosing oil is to research the nutritional value, then trial and error each to determine which tastes best. The only oil to avoid is vegetable oil, because it cannot stand the heat of the kettle and tends to catch on fire. We suggest not worrying about all this and buy our premade packs which have everything already in it. Click the following link for more details: http://www.familyrecroom.com/complete-popcorn-packs-kettle-machines-p-97.html
Only the cart needs assembled. The popper units are shipped completely assembled.
Yes. The hottest part of the popper is the kettle, and the kettle is always at the top of the machine. The base of the popper remains cool enough to set upon a countertop.
The popper has a three-prong plug, and it can be plugged into any standard US outlet.
Yes. They are real wheels.
All Paragon poppers utilize tempered glass panels, stainless steel clean-out trays, and aluminum corner posts. These surfaces can be cleaned using standard window cleaner or soap and water. To keep your kettle as clean as possible, let it cool after each use then wipe it out with a damp cloth. Cleaning kits must be used when the kettle becomes black with carbonization. Never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid because its electrical components can short out. We suggest buying the following: http://www.familyrecroom.com/popcorn-machine-kettle-cleaning-p-99.html