Make fresh popcorn in an empty soda can.
Popcorn is a popular treat around a campfire or in the home, but there are times when you don't have the equipment to make it. If you forgot your campfire popcorn basket, you can still enjoy your favorite crunchy snack. Clean out an empty soda can and turn it into a mini popcorn machine. It's not fancy, but it will do the same job as any popcorn maker. Make two or three of these and stow them with your camping gear for the next time you sleep under the stars.
Instructions
1. Rinse out a soda can and turn it upside down to drain and air dry.
2. Rub medium grade sandpaper all over the outer surface of the can to remove all the paint. Wipe the surface of the can with a damp paper towel and then a dry one to remove any can or paint shavings.
3. Draw a line from the top edge of the can down the side 2 inches. Make a left turn and continue the line another 2 inches. Turn back toward the top and continue the line back up to the lip of the can. You have drawn three sides of a 2-inch square.
4. Cut along the marked line from one top edge to the other. Leave the top of the square shape connected to the can. This will create a flap that sticks out slightly from the can body.
5. Place the point of the craft knife between the can and the flap. Lift up the flap with the blade and body of the knife. Bend the flap out to a 45-degree angle, creating a chute that will aim the escaping popcorn downward.
6. Pour 1 tbsp. of vegetable oil into the can through the top hole. Add 3 tbsp. of plain popcorn kernels. Slip in a pat of butter and some salt. Swivel the pop top around to cover the can opening.
7. Place your popcorn machine on a heat source such as a stove, campfire coals, portable stove or large candle. Place a bowl underneath the popcorn chute. The popcorn will pop and fly out of the chute into the bowl.
Tags: continue line, empty soda, from edge, line from, line from edge