Preparation
For those times when you need a really, really big pot, a stockpot is essential. Not everyone needs one necessarily, but if you regularly make big batches of homemade soup or stock, or seafood boils (a summertime tradition), it’s probably a good idea to have a stockpot.
More than just a large saucepan, stockpots are characterized by tall, narrow sides that minimize evaporation, making them ideal for thinner liquids like broths, soups, and stocks that simmer for hours, for boiling large batches of pasta or potatoes, and even for steaming vegetables. They are often made from aluminum or stainless steel and thus are both larger and lighter than a Dutch oven. If you’re in the market for a stockpot, check out our top picks below to help kickstart your search and maybe invite us over for dinner? We’ll bring wine.
Best Overall: Le Creuset Enameled Steel Stock PotBest Martha-Approved: Martha Stewart Enamel Stock PotBest Extra-Large Option: All-Clad Stainless-Steel Gourmet Accessories Stock PotBest Budget: T-fal Simply Cook Nonstick Stock PotBest Nonstick: Green Pan Covered Stock PotBest Mini: Demeyere Multi-Use Mini Stock Pot with Steaming Basket
