These top ten stainless-steel stockpots are tried and true kitchen staples that do more than just make stock. As anyone who has ever owned a stockpot knows, this vessel has no bounds. Used to boil pasta, simmer stews and chili, and cook lobster and corn on the cob, the stockpot is the workhorse of the kitchen and every cook’s favorite when it comes to serving a crowd.
The stockpot has been known to do double duty catching drips falling from leaky ceilings, canning vegetables, and even making candles and soap in days gone by. Is it any wonder we can’t live without it? This list of our favorite stainless-steel stockpots will give you something to simmer on.
1. Homi Chef’s Commercial-Grade Stainless-Steel Stock Pot
The Commercial Grade Stainless Steel Stock Pot by Homi Chef is made with three-ply construction to ensure high-quality thermal absorption and even heat distribution. It comes in two sizes; 16 and 20 quarts—suitable for serving up a huge feast. From steamers to soup, this non-toxic-nickel-free pot will turn out great tasting food with no chemical taste every time. The tight-fitting cover allows you to trap in moisture and flavors, and any home chef will appreciate the stay-cool handles. If you can fit this baby in, it is dishwasher safe, allowing for painless and straightforward cleanup.
2. Homi Chef’s 8-Quart Nickel-free Stainless-Steel Stock Pot
Homi’s 8 Quart version of its stock pot does double duty as a Dutch oven as well, adding to its overall versatility. This thick, heavy pot is manufactured with a 6MM aluminum core sandwiched between two stainless steel layers for superior heat distribution. This is a serious piece of kitchen equipment that is rugged enough to last a lifetime. Its elegant polished exterior means that it can go from stove to table easily enough and keep food hot, to boot. The sunken lid helps retain moisture, and the heavy gauge bottom effectively eliminates hotspots, allowing your food to cook evenly. Oven and dishwasher safe, it is compatible with all stovetops.
3. Cooks Standard’s NC-00330 Classic Stockpot
The Classic Stockpot by Cooks Standard comes in 8, 11, 20, and 30-quart sizes to accommodate the largest crowd. The heavy-duty construction will not damage, even after years of use. The clear lid lets you see what’s going on even as it helps keep in the flavors and moisture of your dish, so you get delicious results. It is compatible with gas, electric, glass, ceramic, and halogen stoves and is dishwasher safe. You’re going to want one in every size of this commercial-grade stockpot.
4. Farberware’s Classic Series Stainless-Steel Stock Pot
The mirror-like finish of this stock pot by Farberware gives a classic look to an old favorite. Farberware starts with an aluminum core that is covered with stainless steel to create a safe and effective pot that stands the test of time. The self-basting lid captures and directs moisture back into the pot to keep your dish tender and flavorful. Oven safe to 350 degrees, it comes in both a 12 and 16-quart option. Farberware has been making terrific cookware for 100 years; this fine stockpot is built to last a lifetime.
5. Calphalon’s Classic Stainless-Steel Stock Pot
The Classic Stainless-Steel Stock Pot by Cephalon has sturdy, double-riveted extended handles that stay cool even when the pan is hot for easy maneuverability. Designed for everyday use, this convenient six-quart pot is ideal for soup, risotto, potatoes, and more. Convenient fill lines make measuring easy, and we love that the covers have straining holes that line up, so there is no need to use a colander. The impact-bonded aluminum base provides excellent heat distribution, and it comes with Cephalon’s full ten-year warranty.
6. Update International’s Professional Stainless-Steel Stock Pot
A favorite among professional chef’s, there is no reason why you shouldn’t have Update International’s stock pot in your home kitchen as well. This 12-quart heavy gauge stainless steel workhorse is NSF certified and beautifully designed. Ideal for pasta, vegetables, and soup, the tight-fitting lid keeps flavors locked in, and the extended handles are perfect for avoiding scalds and burns. The brushed interior resists sticking, even after hours of simmering, and those who have purchased this pot say it is easily the best stock pot they have ever owned.
7. Winware’s Stainless-Steel Stock Pot with Cover
The NSF certified commercial grade stainless steel stock pot from Winware comes in sizes ranging from 8 quarts all the way up to the mother of all stock pots—80 quarts. While it unlikely you are going to need that size at home, you may want a bigger stockpot for special occasions like a lobster feast, and this 40-quart version fits the bill perfectly. The thick bottom distributes heat evenly, and it can be used on any stovetop.
8. Duxtop’s Professional Stainless-Steel Stock Pot
The Professional Stock Pot by Duxtop has features that are unique compared to other brands. The handles are ergonomically shaped with an anti-slip satin finish that makes handling the pot easy and stress-free. The pot itself is constructed with 18/10 commercial grade stainless steel and an encapsulated aluminum bottom. Oven safe for up to 550 degrees, it cleans up easily in the dishwasher and is made to last a lifetime.
9. Tramontina’s Stainless-Steel Induction-Ready Stock Pot
The Stainless-Steel Stock Pot by Tramontina has three-ply clad construction that allows for even and rapid heat distribution. Made in Brazil, it is NSF certified and oven safe to 550 degrees. This gourmet stockpot is designed for both functionality and aesthetics. Riveted handles and a sunken lid add to the features of this imported cookware. It is dishwasher safe, and part of Tramontina’s more extensive gourmet collection with a satin brushed interior and a mirrored finish.
10. All-Clad’s Stainless-Steel Tri-Ply Bonded Stockpot with Lid
The wide bottom of this 6-quart stockpot from All-Clad is ideal for sautéing freshly chopped ingredients before the addition of liquid, and the three-ply construction will ensure your mirepoix cooks evenly. The stainless-steel interior with a starburst finish resists sticking and is simple to clean when you have finished up. The sunken lid and high sides ensure even distribution and keep flavors locked in. All-Clad pans are made in the USA and come with a limited lifetime warranty.
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By BCR Writing Staff
July 2019