Things that go pop in the pan

Has your microwave popcorn lost its spark? The best popcorn is still made the old-fashioned way, on top of the stove. This gives you the freshest unadulterated snack to which you can add your own flavorings - like real butter.

Remember that 1/2 cup of kernels equals a quart of popped corn. And use vegetable oil when popping. (Butter will burn.) Here are ways to put more snap in your pop. Add:

*Seasoned salt or garlic salt to flavor your buttered popcorn.

*A few dashes of Worcestershire sauce to the melted butter.

*Grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese to melted butter.

*A dash or two of your favorite hot sauce to jazz up your butter blend.