For stovetop: add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and 1 popcorn kernel to a medium pan. Cover and place over medium-high heat. When the single kernel pops, add the 1/2 cup of kernels and cook covered until the kernels have more than 1 to 2 seconds between pops. Shake the pan several times during cooking so the unpopped kernels go to the bottom of the pan.