Best Stockpot Reviews 2018

The price of stockpots varies greatly, and mostly depends on their capacity; a 12-quart vessel is in most cases going to cost a little bit more than an 8-quart stockpot. Given that all cooking surfaces aren’t created equal, non-stick stockpots may come with higher price tags than those with a regular base, but each has its own set of advantages.

Most high-quality cookware should last you for years to come, but cheap stockpots may disappoint you here. They will either warp over time owing to poor craftsmanship and materials, or will not to do the job right from the get-go owing to lack of certain features such as even heat cooking. But to give you a rough idea on price tags you’ll come across, they range between $30 and $300+ based on holding capacity.

Contrary to what its name would suggest, stockpots can do way more than just make stock; they can boil a large batch of corn on the cob or Florida spiny lobsters. They’re available in several different sizes and shapes as well, but choose one that has the volume you desire, and one that you can store away easily.

That said, here are a few factors to consider when buying the best stockpot for your needs:

• Sizes – Measured generally in quarts, where 1 equals roughly 1 liter, sizes start at 6 quarts all the way to 150+.
• Material – Common materials used in the construction of stockpots include stainless steel, aluminum, and porcelain enamel.
• Handles – Stockpots can get pretty heavy, especially when full, so look for handles that are not merely pressed but bolted on.
• Lid – Some lids are made of the same material as the pot, but some are fitted with glass lids that allow you to see what’s cooking inside.
• Maintenance – Follow the manufacturer instructions when cleaning your stockpot, keeping in mind whether it’s dishwasher-friendly or hand wash only.
• Oven-safe – If you’re going to be using the stockpot over the stovetop and in the oven, look for models that are compatible with both cooking methods. High-quality stockpots can typically resist oven heat of up to 350 degrees F.
• Vented Lid – A grommet placed on the lid allows air to escape and prevents boiling over.
• Warranty – Stockpots can be big-ticket purchases, and having a warranty allows you to buy with the confidence of knowing that it’s built to last.

Starting with size, stockpots for home use range between 6 quarts and 17 quarts, and you want to choose a size that provides you with the extra space while cooking, and one that’s easy to move around when full. You can even add two stockpots to your culinary arsenal, one 6-quart and one 12-quart, so that you can cook efficiently for a family of 4 or a large gathering.

The next aspect to give some thought to is the shape of the stockpot; if you look closely, some are wider and some are taller than others. Tall stockpots are great because their surface offers less water dissipation from the stock, but on the downside can be cumbersome to handle. Stockpots with a smaller base generally heat food faster than their larger counterparts, making them an ideal choice if you’re cooking for a small audience.

Furthermore, they can be made from several different materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Stockpots are noted for their ability to conduct heat well, and then transmit the generated heat to the food. Stainless-steel stockpots are lightweight, durable, and heat rapidly and evenly starting from the base and up the sides, so that the food cooks evenly. Aluminum models heat up pretty quickly, and are generally dishwasher- and oven-safe, whereas porcelain enamel-made stockpots are typically scratch-proof and resistant to high temperatures. Non-stick stock pots are lightweight, and offer superior even distribution of heat, but also scratch easily with regular use.

Apart from the materials and size, it’s important to consider a few features that can make your cooking experience with a stockpot a wonderful one. A stockpot is no lightweight item, especially when full, so look for models fitted with sturdy handles that allow you to safely carry it from one spot to another. Also pay attention to the shape of the handles, where they should offer a great grip even with mitts on, because in most cases they will be sizzling hot just like the stock inside.

The lower portion of some stockpots is fitted with a spigot, which allows you to drain the liquids as you cook. It also serves as a safety feature, because it prevents you from lifting the pot to pour the liquids out which can be a messy process.