Heat a large uncovered pot (that has a lid) on the stove over high. Add oil to pot and then add sugar. Stir with a wooden spoon to distribute sugar into oil.

Add popcorn to the hot oil. Add lid and let popcorn heat in oil. Once you hear the first kernel pop, begin shaking the pan vigorously. A good way to do this is to grip both handles of the pan and shake back and forth, while keeping it over the flame. Be sure your hands are covered either with oven mitts or towels, as the pot will be hot. Try to shake until you hear the kernels slow down in their popping.

Once the popping has stopped, remove the kettle corn immediately from the heat.  Pour onto a large baking sheet, in as even of a layer as possible.

While popcorn is still hot, sprinkle salt across. Taste and adjust salt as needed.