How to choose the right pots

There is plenty to choose from. But what matters when you are buying a new pot?

Should the pot have a coating or not? Do you need a saucepan? Aluminium or steel? Expensive or affordable? And how many pots do you actually need?

Start with your own everyday life and cooking habits. These five questions will help you decide which pots belong in your kitchen.

1. How many people do you cook for?

A large household needs a bigger pot than someone who usually cooks for one. Think about the portions you make most often, whether that is pasta, vegetables or a family meal.

2. How much do you cook?

If you enjoy cooking and experimenting, it makes sense to have a wider range of pots. For most everyday kitchens, three are a good starting point: a saucepan for sauces and smaller dishes, a 3–4 litre pot for potatoes, pasta and vegetables, and a larger casserole for sauces and simmered dishes.

If you regularly make soup from scratch, add a large soup pot. A large casserole with a lid is useful for stews and slow-cooked meals.

3. How do you use your pots?

Do you prefer a few versatile pots, or a wider selection where each has a specific purpose? If storage space is limited, choose cookware that can handle several different tasks.

A sauté pan with a nonstick coating and lid can be used for frying and for dishes with more liquid. A medium saucepan is equally useful for boiling potatoes and preparing a sauce.

4. What matters most to you when cooking?

Choose according to what you value: easy cleaning, the option to use less fat, design, price or a particular material. Pots with a nonstick coating make everyday cooking and cleaning easier. Stainless-steel and copper pots can be a good choice if you prefer a more classic look.

5. What type of hob do you have?

Pots can be used on gas, electric and ceramic hobs. For induction, choose a pot with a magnetic base; pure aluminium does not work on induction. Also make sure that the pot matches the size of your hob’s cooking zone.