Popcorn Instructions
Making popcorn for the first time can be intimidating but it really isn’t hard. After popping your first batch, you will be the party pro!
Safety Precautions
We value your continued safety above all else. Please follow these guidelines when using your equipment to prevent injury and maximize product performance:
- No direct contact to equipment by the general public should be allowed when used in food service locations. Only trained personnel should operate this equipment.
- Carefully read any and all instructions before beginning operation of the equipment.
- Always wear safety glasses when servicing equipment.
- Kettle reaches extreme heat during operation. To avoid injury, never touch kettle while hot.
- Never make alterations to the equipment.
- Machine must be properly grounded to prevent electrical shock.
- Do not immerse the kettle or any other part of this equipment in the water. Doing so may damage equipment and prevent it from working properly.
- Always unplug equipment before cleaning or servicing to prevent electric shock.
Operating Instructions
Be sure equipment is connected to a properly grounded 120 volt power supply with a 15 amp circuit.
Operation
- Turn on two switches. (Located in the chass is above the door.)
- Allow the kettle to warm for approximately 5 minutes.
- Bulk Supplies: Place 2/3 cup of oil in a kettle. Immediately add 8ounces (1 cup) of raw popcorn plus seasoning salt. Portion Packs: Use an 8 ounce size pre-measured pack for the machine. Cutoff the top of the plastic pack. Dump the entire contents in the kettle.
- Pull lid closed to prevent stray kernels. (Lid is held in place by a magnet directly above the kettle.)
- While corn is popping, keep front operator doors slightly ajar to prevent fogging. Keep the hopper door at “out” position to aid in catching stray popcorn.
- Allow corn to pop until popping ceases, usually when 3-4 seconds lapse between pops. Then pour remaining popped corn from the kettle by rotating the handle clockwise 1/3 turn and pulling downward.
- Repeat steps 1-5 for additional batches.
Shutting Down
- Turn the kettle switch to OFF position when finished preparing popcorn.
- Power or light switch may remain on to display and heat popcorn.
- Kettle will be hot! Please be sure to avoid direct contact with the kettle during the popping process!
- In case of a malfunction, immediately shut-off the motor and heat switches and correct the problem.
Cleaning Procedure
- All Paragon poppers utilize tempered glass panels, stainless steel cleanout trays, aluminum corner posts and anodized kettles. These surfaces can be cleaned using vinegar and water solution. The use of ammonia based cleaners is not recommended. This includes Windex.
- You will want to note that you should never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid because it has electrical components inside of it that can short out.
- Popcorn kettles are designed to be wiped out with a clean cloth after each use.
Cleaning Procedure
- Make sure the unit is turned off for 3-5 minutes before cleaning.
- Remove the plastic bubble and clean with warm water and dish detergent. Wipe with a soft dish cloth. DO NOT USE ANY TYPE OF SCRUB BRUSH, BRILLOPAD, ETC. This will scratch and damage the plastic bubble. Dry with a clean, soft towel.
- Remove the metal bowl and plastic mesh insert and wash with warm water and dish detergent. Please use a soft dish cloth. The sugar will dissolve in warm water. Dry with a clean, soft towel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will my popcorn popper produce?
What makes popcorn pop?
A popcorn kernel actually has approximately 12% moisture inside of it. As you heat up the kernel, the moisture turns into steam and expands. Once the kernel reaches 475 degrees Fahrenheit, the expanding steam forces the hull to explode (or pop).
How long does it take to cook a batch of popcorn?
Our poppers are designed to cook a kettle of kernels in approximately 3-5minutes. The cycle time is based on having the kettle heated to cooking temperature before loading the kettle.
What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn?
The type of oil that you use will affect the taste of the popcorn. The most common type that is used is coconut oil. It normally is regarded as the best tasting and has long been a staple at movie theaters. However, many health conscious people prefer canola oil due to its lower fat and cholesterol content. Other types that are often used are sunflower, peanut and soy.
What's the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean?
Our poppers utilize tempered glass panels, stainless steel clean out trays, aluminum corner posts and anodized kettles. These surfaces can be cleane dusing vinegar and water solution. The use of ammonia based cleaners is not recommended. You will want to note that you should never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid because it has electrical components inside of it that can short out. Paragon kettles are designed to be wiped out with a clean cloth after each use.
What is "expansion ratio" on popcorn and what is the optimum level?
The expansion ratio refers to the increase in volume that occurs as popcorn pops. It is determined by measuring the volume of popcorn prior to and after popping. An expansion ratio between 40 and 44 is usually considered ideal. If the expansion is less than 40, the popped corn can be a little chewy.