Pioneer Woman Cookware in Pots & Pans(40)

How is a Dutch oven different from a stock pot?

A Dutch oven made of cast iron is versatile and typically works very well in both the oven and on the stovetop. A stock pot is made of metal and is for the stovetop only. The heavy metal construction of a Dutch oven conducts heat evenly, so you don’t get extra hot spots mixed in with cooler ones, which means food typically cooks evenly in a cast iron Dutch oven.

What types of pots are good for making large batches of soup?

You’ll need a big pot with deep sides to make large batches of soup. This gives you plenty of room to stir the soup without splashing or spilling it. Look for a stock pot with a 6-quart or 8-quart capacity for smaller batches of soup, and consider a 12-quart or 16-quart pot if you plan to make bigger batches.

Are enamel pans nonstick?

Enamel pans are typically nonstick as long as you don’t turn the heat above medium-high. When the heat exceeds medium-high, the food in an enamel pan can start to caramelize or even burn. That’s when it can start to stick to the enamel surface of the pan.