This Outdoor Popcorn Popper Is an Essential for Summer Entertaining

To say I’m a big movie watcher would be an understatement — and, naturally, I’ve viewed them in probably every setting and format imaginable. At home on a projector, on a roof, at a drive-in… the list goes on. Of course, I love going to the theater — settling down in a big crowd with my snacks, in front of the biggest screen imaginable? It’s an unmatched experience. But there is something especially magical about watching movies outdoors, too. Setting up a projector and turning a movie on in your backyard while the sun sets is a quintessential summer activity. And one fact remains a constant, regardless of where my movie-watching is taking place: Popcorn is a must.

I stand by that good popcorn can totally enhance the viewing experience — and aside from movie theater popcorn, homemade popcorn is even better. And with this amazing find from Uncommon Goods, you can make popcorn outside on the grill and get the perfect outdoor movie (or snacking) experience! Yep, I’m talking about a $28 Outdoor Popcorn Popper.

Of course, even if outdoor movies aren’t your thing, the Popcorn Popper is a must-have for any kind of outdoor entertaining — it’s the perfect easy snack that everyone is sure to love. And you don’t even need a grill (though, it is compatible with both charcoal and gas): You can put it over a wood campfire! No need to run inside to make popcorn on the stove and risk missing out on any quality time with the people that are hanging out outside.

Plus, it works fast, producing up to three quarts in no more than five minutes. How it works is that you place the kernels inside after lifting the hinged lid, snap the removable handle on (which makes it easier to store) and the steam vents let moisture escape to get the fluffiest batch possible — shaking it while it pops will get the best results. You can grip the hardwood on the end of the long handle, so there’s no risk of burning your hands. Plus, the metal is non-stick, so cleaning it off is as simple as wiping it down with a paper towel.

Average Rating: 4.4/5

“This was the perfect gift! They said they needed to keep it moving to ensure they cooked evenly. Which is great because then it requires them to stay attentive. 10/10 would recommend.” – Loz

“Assembly was easy and the product is sturdy. The materials used allow it to be a perfect utensil for cooking over an open flame. We need a few more tries to perfect the cooking timing – but that happens with all popcorn popping sessions.” – Popcorn Daughter

“It was so easy to use and made delicious popcorn without all the chemicals in Jiffy Pop. It worked so well that someone who was with us pulled out her phone to order one for herself right then, and was extremely disappointed that they were back-ordered!” – Deb

To get such delicious results in such a short amount of time makes this a fundamental summer item — and, as reviewers mentioned, it makes for a great gift! Though the Popcorn Popper is currently on backorder, it’ll arrive in only a few weeks, and in no time you’ll have the perfect addition to your outdoor movie setup.

Buy: Outdoor Popcorn Popper, $28.00

This post originally appeared on The Kitchn. See it here: This Outdoor Popcorn Popper Is a Must-Have for Summer Entertaining