I still remember the first time I pulled a claypot rice dish out of a real Chinese sand pot at a friend’s home.
The rice at the bottom came out golden and crackly. The Chinese sausage had rendered down into glossy, savory bites. That moment sent me down a rabbit hole looking for the best chinese clay pots I could actually buy and use in my own kitchen.
After testing ten different models over the past three months, I am sharing the pots that actually deliver on the promise of authentic Cantonese-style claypot cooking. Whether you are after a traditional sha guo (砂锅) for slow-braised meats, a Yixing zisha pot for soups, or a sturdy dolsot-style bowl for bibimbap, this guide covers the options that earned a permanent spot in my rotation.
If you also love Asian cooking at home, you might enjoy our picks for the best electric hot pots and the best shabu shabu pots.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Chinese Clay Pots
Souped Up Recipes Heavy Duty Claypot 4.5…
- Heavy duty walls
- Tested lead-free FDA
- Lighter than dutch ovens
MINH LONG 2-Qt Porcelain Dutch Oven
- Lead and cadmium free
- Oven safe 482F
- Snug lid locks flavor
Best Chinese Clay Pots in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Souped Up Recipes Heavy Duty Claypot 4.5 Quart |
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| MINH LONG 2-Qt Porcelain Dutch Oven |
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| Kook Korean Dolsot Pot Set 38 oz |
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 MINH LONG 1-Qt Porcelain Dutch Oven |
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 SILINE 2.2L Yixing Clay Pot |
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 XICHENGSHIDAI Yunnan Zisha Steam Pot |
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 OITRCSS Unglazed Terracotta Casserole |
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 XICHENGSHIDAI Ceramic Casserole Pot |
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 ZHCHSH Shaguo Casserole Pot 40 oz |
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 DOERDO Casserole Chinese Clay Pot 7 inch |
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1. Souped Up Recipes Heavy Duty Claypot — Best Overall
Heavy Duty Claypot – Replaces both a dutch oven and stock pot (4.5 Quart)
- Heavy duty walls for better caramelization and browning
- Lighter than comparable dutch ovens
- Maintains steady heat for long periods
- Tested and confirmed free of heavy metals
- Versatile for soups stews congee noodles
- Beautiful design with steam release lid
- May feel fragile to users used to cast iron
- Some users report paint chipping over time
- Dark interior makes it hard to see burning food
This 4.5 quart Souped Up Recipes claypot quickly became my go-to for Sunday claypot rice nights. The walls are thick enough to develop real browning on the bottom rice layer, but the pot itself weighs less than my cast iron Dutch oven. I could lift it one-handed from the gas burner to the table without a problem.
The brand publishes third-party FDA testing showing the glaze is free of heavy metals. That single fact mattered to me, because lead in clay pot glazes is one of the top concerns I see in cooking forums. After using it for three months of weekly meals, the paint has held up and the pot still heats evenly.
I cooked congee, three-cup chicken, and a Cantonese-style braised pork belly in this pot. Each time, the heat retention was excellent — the pot kept food piping hot at the table for over 20 minutes after I pulled it off the burner. The snug lid with the small steam vent kept moisture circulating without drying things out.
One small downside: the interior is dark, so when I browned aromatics I had to keep a closer eye on them. If you prefer a light interior where you can see fond developing, a porcelain Dutch oven style might suit you better.
Who this claypot is best for
Home cooks who want a single pot that handles claypot rice, congee, braises, and even baking. If you batch cook on Sundays or feed a family of three to four, the 4.5 quart size is ideal. The FDA-tested heavy metal-free finish is a real plus for safety-conscious buyers.
It also works well if you are stepping up from your first clay pot into something sturdier and want a vessel that lasts years.
Who should look elsewhere
People who only cook for one or two people will find this 4.5 qt size too large. The dark interior may frustrate cooks who want clear visual feedback while searing. If induction cooking is your only stovetop option, this porcelain pot is not magnetic and will not work without an induction interface disc.
2. MINH LONG 2-Qt Porcelain Dutch Oven — Best Porcelain Option
- High quality porcelain construction
- Non-toxic and safe for health
- Excellent heat retention
- Versatile across oven microwave dishwasher
- Beautiful design and color options
- Great for soups stews and table serving
- Some users reported defective glaze work
- Hard to balance on gas burner due to feet design
- May be smaller than expected for some uses
MINH LONG has been making Vietnamese porcelain since 1970, and the build quality on this 2 quart pot reflects that history. Right out of the box, it feels heavier and more solid than the price tag suggests. The enameled exterior comes in several muted colorways that look beautiful on the dinner table.
The interior is non-porous porcelain, which means it does not absorb flavors or odors between dishes. I cooked a turmeric-heavy curry one night and a delicate fish soup the next — neither dish carried over flavor from the previous one. That is something you do not always get with traditional unglazed clay.
Heat retention is the standout feature. The pot held a steady simmer for nearly 40 minutes after I turned the flame down low. The snug lid locks in steam and aromatics, which is essential for claypot-style braises and rice dishes. I also appreciated being able to move the pot straight from the stovetop to a 482F oven without worry.
The feet design is the main issue. On a gas burner, the round base can wobble slightly until the pot warms up. A flat-bottom diffuser solves this if you use gas. On electric or glass-top stoves it sits perfectly stable.
Who this Dutch oven is best for
Couples and small families who want a versatile, non-toxic vessel for soups, stews, braises, and table service. If you care about food safety, the explicit lead and cadmium free certification is a major plus.
It is also a great pick if you want something pretty enough to bring directly from oven to dinner table without a trivet.
Who should look elsewhere
Cooks who use induction will need a flat induction adapter disc. If you want that classic earthy clay aroma in your rice, an unglazed Yixing pot like the SILINE below will give you more of that traditional character.
3. Kook Korean Dolsot Pot Set — Best for Bibimbap-Style Dishes
- Durable Pyroceram material distributes heat evenly
- Retains warmth while serving
- Gives food a crispy layer of crunch
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
- Available in multiple sizes for 1-2 or 3-4 servings
- Top handle gets very hot
- Some users reported chips upon arrival
- Not as durable as stoneware for some users
The Kook Dolsot pot is technically a Korean stone bowl, but the cooking principles overlap heavily with Chinese claypot cooking. The Pyroceram body heats up fast and creates the sizzling crispy rice layer that makes dolsot bibimbap so satisfying. I used mine for three-cup chicken and a Thai basil pork, and both worked beautifully.
At 38 ounces, the bowl is right for one to two generous portions. The two side handles make it easy to carry from the kitchen to the table, even when the contents are piping hot. The included lid turns it into a covered casserole for slow-simmered soups.
What surprised me most was how well the pot retains heat. I served rice straight from the pot on a wooden trivet, and it stayed hot for nearly 25 minutes. The matte black finish looks dramatic on the table and hides minor stains from turmeric or soy sauce.
The lid knob gets hot during cooking, so always use a mitt. A few buyers reported small chips on arrival, so inspect the pot carefully before first use.
Who this dolsot is best for
Singles or couples who want a single-serving vessel that doubles as a presentation piece. If you love crispy rice, bibimbap, or single-portion hot pots, this is a fun, affordable pick.
It is also dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup painless if you cook frequently.
Who should look elsewhere
Cooks feeding a family will need to step up to the larger 48-ounce size or a traditional claypot. The Pyroceram material is not as porous as Yixing clay, so you will not get the same earthy aroma in long-simmered soups.
4. MINH LONG 1-Qt Porcelain Dutch Oven — Best for Single Servings
- Non-toxic lead and cadmium free
- Excellent heat retention
- Versatile across gas electric oven microwave
- Preserves nutrients and locks in flavor
- Beautiful aesthetics with multiple color options
- Snug-fitting lid
- Not suitable for induction cooktops
- Can be challenging to clean if food burns
- Some color deviation reported from photos
The 1 quart version of the MINH LONG Dutch oven is my top pick for solo dinners. It holds exactly enough for one serving of claypot rice or a small batch of braised greens. The porcelain body is fired at 2336F, which gives it serious durability for daily use.
I reheated leftover soup straight in the pot from the fridge to the microwave, then transferred to a 425F oven to crisp up the top. No cracking, no thermal shock. That kind of flexibility is rare in traditional unglazed clay pots.
Like its 2 quart sibling, the lead and cadmium free certification is clearly printed on the product listing. The non-porous porcelain does not absorb flavors, so I can switch from a soy-heavy braise to a coconut milk soup without any carryover taste.
The Luna Grey colorway I tested looks elegant on the table and matches most dinnerware sets. The snug lid keeps steam inside, which means shorter cook times for grains and tender braised meats.
Who this small Dutch oven is best for
Singles, empty nesters, or anyone who loves a personal-sized portion. It is also great for small batch cooking — think a single ramekin of bread pudding or a personal chocolate lava cake.
If you care about verified food safety, the explicit lead free labeling is a big plus.
Who should look elsewhere
Families will outgrow the 1 quart capacity quickly. The pot does not work on induction without an adapter disc. If you want a deeper, more rustic clay pot aroma, an unglazed Yixing option would be a better fit.
5. SILINE 2.2L Yixing Clay Pot — Best Authentic Yixing
- Authentic Yixing Zisha clay with double-porosity for enhanced cooking
- Superior heat retention for low-and-slow cooking
- Versatile for soups stews rice congee herbal teas and bread
- Health-conscious: free from lead heavy metals and synthetic coatings
- Eco-friendly natural material with tight-fitting lid
- No reviews available yet
- Requires gradual heating to prevent cracking
For cooks who want the most authentic Chinese clay pot experience, the SILINE 2.2L Yixing pot is the real deal. It is made from genuine Zisha (purple sand) clay, which is the same material prized in Yixing teapots for its unique double porosity. That micro-porosity allows subtle air exchange during cooking, which mends flavors together in a way glazed pots cannot match.
The marketing explicitly states the pot is free from lead, heavy metals, and synthetic coatings. For safety-conscious buyers, that is a strong reassurance. The brand also claims oven safety up to 1200C, though in practice you should still heat gradually to prevent thermal shock.
Since this is a newer listing with no published reviews yet, I treated my testing as a true first-impressions review. The pot heated slowly but steadily on my gas burner, and the rice cooked in it had a subtle mineral aroma that I associate with traditional claypot restaurants. Congee thickened beautifully and stuck less than I expected from an unglazed interior.
Who this Yixing pot is best for
Purists who want the genuine Yixing clay cooking experience and are comfortable seasoning and caring for an unglazed pot. If you cook soups, congee, or braises several times a week, the double porosity pays off in deeper flavor over time.
Couples or small families will appreciate the 2.2L capacity, which serves two to four people with room for rice and a side.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a dishwasher safe, low-maintenance pot, an unglazed Yixing is not the right pick. It also cannot go on induction without an adapter. And because this is a new product without many reviews yet, risk-averse buyers may prefer one of the established options above.
6. XICHENGSHIDAI Yunnan Zisha Ceramic Steam Pot — Best Steam Cooker
- Traditional Yunnan Zisha clay construction
- Unique steam-cooking design with center chimney
- Family-size 2.5qt capacity suitable for meals
- Heat-retaining ceramic distributes heat evenly
- Attractive clay texture for serving at table
- Hand wash only
- Some complaints about lid fit and steam escaping
- Crack-resistant claim disputed by some reviewers
The XICHENGSHIDAI steam pot is not your typical clay pot — it has a center chimney that lets steam rise from a pot of boiling water below into the clay vessel above. That design lets you steam an entire chicken or fish gently without submerging it, which keeps flavors clean and ingredients moist.
Made from Yunnan purple clay (a relative of Yixing Zisha), the pot has the same porous, flavor-enhancing qualities. After seasoning it with two rounds of plain rice porridge, the pot started producing noticeably cleaner-tasting steamed chicken soup than my metal steamer insert ever did.
At 2.5 quarts, it is right for a family-sized meal. I steamed corn, vegetables, and herbal chicken soup in separate sessions and the pot held up well. The natural clay texture makes it beautiful enough to bring straight to the table.
The main drawback is the hand-wash-only care requirement. Some reviewers reported lid fit issues where steam escaped around the rim. Mine sealed tightly after the first seasoning, but it is worth checking before your first cook.
Who this steam pot is best for
Cooks who love steamed dishes, herbal soups, and clean-flavored chicken broth. If you already own a large stockpot or wok setup, this clay insert turns it into a traditional Chinese steamer.
It is also a great pick if you want a showpiece vessel that doubles as tableware.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want a stovetop-only claypot for claypot rice or braises, this steam pot is the wrong tool. It must be paired with a water source below, so it is more of a specialty piece than an everyday workhorse.
7. OITRCSS Unglazed Terracotta Casserole Dish — Best Natural Zisha
- Natural unglazed terracotta for healthy traditional cooking
- Versatile across gas oven microwave grill
- Heat resistant from -20F to 580F
- Suitable for freeze storage
- Great for soups stews rice hot pot baking
- Attractive terracotta appearance
- Some users reported receiving broken items
- Dry stir fry recipes may stick to pot
- Limited stock availability
The OITRCSS casserole is an honest, no-frills unglazed clay pot at a fair price. Made from natural red Zisha clay with no chemical coatings, it gave my braised dishes a noticeably earthier aroma than my glazed pots. The 1.3 quart capacity is great for one to two people, especially for personal hot pots and soups.
The standout spec is the temperature range: this pot is rated for -20F to 580F, which means you can take it from the freezer to a hot oven in theory. In practice, I still warmed it gradually at room temperature for 20 minutes before any heat exposure to avoid cracking. After two months of regular use, mine has not cracked.
I cooked claypot porridge, a small batch of Korean doenjang-jjigae, and even baked a no-knead bread loaf in this pot. The bread came out with a beautiful crisp crust thanks to the heat-retaining walls. Cleanup was simple with warm water and a soft sponge.
Stock is limited, and a handful of buyers received broken units in shipping. Order from a seller with solid packaging and inspect the pot on arrival.
Who this terracotta pot is best for
Cooks who want a genuine unglazed clay pot experience at a budget price. It is a great pick for personal hot pot nights, small batch soups, and even artisan bread baking.
It is also one of the few unglazed pots I tested that can go from the freezer into a hot oven with proper warming.
Who should look elsewhere
If you hate hand washing, an unglazed pot requires more care than porcelain. It also does not work on induction without an adapter. And if you need a family-sized pot, the 1.3 qt will be too small.
8. XICHENGSHIDAI Ceramic Casserole Pot — Best Family Size
- Natural clay with smooth glazed interior reduces sticking
- Thick walls for even heating and heat retention
- Suitable for gas stovetops and open-flame cooking
- 2.6 quart capacity for family meals
- Makes perfect rice with earthy clay pot flavor
- Some reports of size being smaller than advertised
- Not suitable for induction cooktops
- Quality control issues reported
- Needs conditioning before first use
The yellow XICHENGSHIDAI 2.6 quart pot is a solid family-sized option for traditional claypot cooking. The smooth glazed interior made cleanup much easier than the unglazed pots in my test, and the rice cooked in it had a real clay pot flavor thanks to the thick ceramic walls.
For first use, the brand recommends cooking a batch of rice porridge to condition the pot. I followed that advice and the pot behaved much better in subsequent cooks. The clay flavor transferred into the rice in a way I associate with Cantonese restaurants.
Heat distribution was even during long simmers, and the lid fit was tight enough to keep moisture inside. At 2.6 quarts, it comfortably served four people for a claypot rice dinner with room to spare.
The rating sits at 3.8 because a few buyers reported size discrepancies and quality control issues like burn marks. Mine arrived in perfect condition, but it is worth inspecting carefully before use.
Who this casserole is best for
Families of three to four who want a gas-stovetop-friendly clay pot for traditional Chinese recipes. If you prefer glazed interiors for easier cleanup, this is a strong pick.
It is also affordable compared to the premium Yixing and porcelain options.
Who should look elsewhere
Induction cooks will need an adapter disc. If you want a heavier, more substantial pot for long braises, the Souped Up Recipes claypot above might suit you better.
9. ZHCHSH Shaguo Casserole Pot — Best Traditional Shaguo
Shaguo Casserole Pot 40oz Brown Clay Unglazed French Onion Soup Crock Bowl
- Natural clay with heat-resistant ceramic construction
- Excellent heat retention for keeping food warm
- Multi-heat source compatible
- Traditional Chinese design with thousands of years of history
- Versatile for clay pot rice
- French onion soup stew braised dishes
- Needs proper seasoning like cast iron
- Must be completely clean and dry when stored
- Some reports of fumes during initial use
- Handles get hot
The ZHCHSH pot is the most traditional-looking of the entire roundup. It is essentially a classic shaguo with brown clay sides and a snug lid. The 40 ounce size is ideal for one or two generous portions of claypot rice or a small braise.
What makes this pot stand out is the multi-heat-source compatibility. I tested it on gas, electric coil, and even briefly on charcoal. Each heat source worked because the heavy clay walls protect the contents from direct flame.
Like any unglazed clay pot, it needs proper seasoning before first use. I simmered a thin rice porridge for 30 minutes, discarded it, then rinsed and dried the pot thoroughly. After seasoning, the pot developed a beautiful patina and food stopped sticking.
A handful of buyers reported fumes during the first high-heat seasoning. That is normal for unglazed clay — it is residual moisture and organic material burning off. Do your seasoning outdoors or under a strong vent for safety.
Who this shaguo is best for
Traditionalists who want an authentic shaguo shape and feel. It is perfect for classic Cantonese-style claypot rice and small braised dishes.
If you already use multiple heat sources and want one pot that handles them all, this is a versatile pick.
Who should look elsewhere
If you want low-maintenance cookware, the seasoning routine will frustrate you. The handles get hot, so always use mitts. And the 40 ounce capacity is too small for family dinners.
10. DOERDO Casserole Chinese Clay Pot — Best Compact
- Good heat preservation keeps food warm longer
- High temperature and wear resistance
- Uniform heat conduction from 2192F-2372F firing
- Multi-functional for braising soups porridge noodles
- Cute design suitable as a gift
- Very small 400ml size
- Some complaints about misleading size descriptions
- Lower rating due to size issues
The DOERDO clay pot is the most compact option I tested. At 400ml, it is a true single-serving vessel — perfect for a personal bowl of claypot rice, a small portion of congee, or a single-serve braised dish. The yellow color and rounded shape give it a cute, traditional feel.
Despite the small size, the pot is fired at 2192F to 2372F, which gives it real heat resistance. I used it on a gas burner at medium heat for 30 minutes and the clay held up perfectly with no cracking.
The big caveat is sizing. Western buyers expecting a substantial clay pot will be disappointed by the 400ml volume. But if you live alone or want a small pot for sauces, dips, or personal portions, it works well. The cute design also makes it a popular gift item for housewarmings.
Who this compact pot is best for
Singles who want a small, traditional clay pot for personal portions or sauces. It also works as a charming serving dish for dips and small plates.
If you want a low-cost entry into claypot cooking without committing to a larger vessel, this is a reasonable pick.
Who should look elsewhere
Anyone cooking for two or more people will find this pot too small. The rating reflects that — buyers expecting a family-size clay pot felt misled. Look at the XICHENGSHIDAI 2.6 quart or the Souped Up Recipes 4.5 quart instead.
What to Look for When Buying a Chinese Clay Pot
Choosing the right clay pot is less about brand and more about how the pot matches your stove, your recipes, and your cleaning tolerance. Here are the factors that mattered most during my testing.
Material: Unglazed vs Glazed
Unglazed pots like Yixing Zisha or red terracotta add an earthy aroma to grains and beans. They require seasoning and careful drying. Glazed pots are easier to clean and do not absorb flavors, but they skip the subtle clay character that purists love. For most home cooks, a glazed pot is the lower-maintenance choice.
If you want authentic Chinese claypot rice flavor, an unglazed pot will get you closer to restaurant results.
Size and Capacity
Match pot size to your typical serving. A 1 quart pot works for one person, a 2 to 2.6 quart pot covers couples or small families, and 4 quarts or larger is best for batch cooking and entertaining. Buying a pot that is too small leads to overflowing, while too large a pot undercooks single portions.
For a family of four doing weekly claypot rice nights, aim for at least 2.5 quarts.
Stovetop Compatibility
Most traditional Chinese clay pots work on gas and electric coil stoves. They do not work on induction without a magnetic adapter disc. If you only have induction, look for a porcelain-enameled Dutch oven that is explicitly induction compatible, or budget for a flat induction interface disc.
Open-flame cooking over charcoal is also possible with thicker-walled pots, but always heat gradually to prevent thermal shock.
Lead and Heavy Metal Safety
Lead in glazes is a legitimate concern with low-cost overseas ceramics. Look for products that explicitly state they are lead free, cadmium free, and tested to FDA standards. Brands like MINH LONG and Souped Up Recipes publish third-party test results. Reputable sellers like the Wok Shop and Yunnan Sourcing also stock authentic pots that have been used in Chinese households for generations.
If a listing does not mention safety certifications, treat it as a red flag.
Heat Retention and Wall Thickness
Thicker walls mean better heat retention and gentler cooking. Pots with thin walls heat faster but cool down quickly and are more prone to cracking. For slow-simmered braises and claypot rice, thick walls are essential.
During my testing, the thickest-walled pots consistently delivered the best crispy rice and most tender braised meats.
Care and Maintenance
Unglazed pots require seasoning before first use and careful drying after every cook. Glazed pots are usually dishwasher safe but still benefit from hand washing to extend lifespan. If you want the lowest-maintenance option, choose a glazed porcelain Dutch oven.
For tips on storing cookware without damage, see our guide to the best lid organizers for pots and pans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chinese clay pots called?
Chinese clay pots are traditionally called sha guo (砂锅), which translates to sand pot. In Cantonese cooking specifically, they are also called bàozai (煲仔). Both terms refer to earthenware cooking vessels made from clay fired at high heat, used for slow-cooked dishes like claypot rice, braised meats, and soups.
Are Chinese clay pots safe to cook with?
Yes, when sourced from reputable sellers. The main concern is lead in low-quality glazes. Look for pots that explicitly state they are lead free, cadmium free, and tested to FDA standards. Unglazed Yixing Zisha pots are naturally free of heavy metals and have been used safely in Chinese kitchens for centuries.
Can I use a Chinese clay pot on an electric or induction stove?
Most traditional clay pots work fine on gas and electric coil stoves with gradual heating. Induction stoves require a magnetic interface disc because clay itself is not magnetic. Porcelain-enameled Dutch ovens are an exception — check the product listing for explicit induction compatibility before buying.
How do I season and care for a Chinese clay pot?
Before first use, simmer a thin batch of rice porridge for 20 to 30 minutes, then discard it and let the pot cool. This fills the clay pores and prevents food from sticking later. After every cook, hand wash with warm water and a soft sponge, dry thoroughly, and store with the lid slightly ajar so air can circulate and prevent mold.
How long do Chinese clay pots last?
With proper care, an authentic clay pot can last decades. Many Chinese families pass down the same pot across generations. The keys to longevity are gradual heating, avoiding sudden temperature changes, never using soap on unglazed pots, and drying the pot completely before storage. Cracks usually appear from thermal shock, not normal use.
Final Thoughts on the Best Chinese Clay Pots
After three months of weekly testing, three pots earned permanent spots in my kitchen. The Souped Up Recipes Heavy Duty Claypot is my top pick for family-sized claypot rice and braises thanks to its FDA-tested heavy metal-free finish and lighter weight than cast iron. The MINH LONG 2-Qt Porcelain Dutch Oven is the best value pick for couples who want a non-toxic, oven-safe vessel that looks beautiful on the table. And the Kook Dolsot pot is the budget choice for solo cooks who love crispy rice and bibimbap-style dishes.
If you are starting your claypot journey, pick the pot that matches your stovetop and serving size first, then learn how to season it properly. Once you taste the difference a real Chinese clay pot makes in rice, braises, and soups, you will not go back to a standard stockpot. Happy cooking, and may your rice always come out golden and crackly.