Stock pots are one of the most versatile pieces of restaurant equipment in a kitchen. Whether you are simmering stock to warm up your customers in the winter weather, cooking up pasta, soup, braised meats or your famous tomato sauce recipe, a quality stock pot is a crucial investment. Serv-U’s assortment of stock pots is nearly as versatile as the range of dishes you can prepare with one on your stovetop. Take stock of a few buying tips.

The gauge of the stockpot, i.e. the thickness of its walls, is an important factor to consider, along with the body material. Aluminum is a good heat conductor and the least expensive of materials. We offer aluminum stock pots ranging from 8-gauge (3.25 millimeters thick) to heavy-duty 4 millimeters to impact-resistant 2-gauge (6.0 millimeter) aluminum. Prices vary depending on the thickness and it is commonly accepted that the thickest aluminum will provide the most even heat distribution. Thicker aluminum also prevents hot spots from forming during cooking and burning your food.

For the most durability, a stainless steel stock pot is the optimum investment. The body material is suited to round-the-clock use in restaurant operations and catering services. Shiny surfaces give stainless steel cookware an elegant appearance. It is also a reliable heat conductor.

All of Serv-U’s stock pots come with secure handles. Some are welded, others are reinforced with heavy screws or rivets. Whether you are using the pot to make stock or just to boil some corn, you want a well constructed model with a handle that you feel secure lifting off of a pot of hot liquid. Serv-U’s knowledgeable sales representatives can help you make a purchase you will be comfortable using.

One final thing to consider is the lid. Covering lids for your stock pot can be ordered separately for those situations when cooking takes a little longer or you want to leave food simmering for hours.