Getting the best pot for cooking gumbo is very important. Even though other materials are used in making gumbo pots, cast iron pots are highly recommended for obvious reasons. It is noted for its heat retention, even heat distribution as well as its ruggedness and durability.
Since gumbo in all its varieties require long period of cooking, the cast iron pot comes in handy. Your soup will cook for a long time without getting burnt at the bottom. In this review we will look at the best pots that are readily available to help you to make your choice.
Best Oval Shaped Small Capacity Pot for Cooking Gumbo
Product Name: IMUSA USA IMU-89303 Heavy Duty Cajun Oval Cast Aluminum Roaster
Product Rating: 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- The pot is made with cast aluminum material.
- It comes with steamer inserts which are removable.
- Pot heats fast and evenly.
- Has knob and side handles made of aluminum.
- The exterior is mirror polished.
The I IMUSA Cajun Classic Oval Aluminum Roaster is a good cookware for making your gumbo as well as other soup and stews. It is constructed with dense cast aluminum material which has a reputation for durability as well as fast and even distribution of heat.
Because of the material used for this roaster pot your food will not easily get burnt. You can also easily clean and maintain it since your gumbo or other recipes will not stick to the bottom.
The pot is constructed with side handles that enable you carry the pot with ease and comfort. With these safe handles, you can serve your dish with this pot after cooking without fear of burns from heat. Included to compliment this pot is a portable rack that is removable.
The smooth and well-groomed oval design of this pot makes it attractive and a necessity for your kitchen. Both the inside and external of the pot are shinny and resplendent because of its polished finishing. It can safely be placed in an oven for your cooking.
We recommend this aluminum coated cast iron pot for cooking gumbo dishes because of its functionality and outstanding oval design. It also comes in handy for a small family or singletons.
Best Large Capacity User friendly Pot For Cooking Gumbo
Product Name: Cooks Standard 02520 Quart Classic Stainless Steel Stockpot with Lid
Product Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Pot is made of high quality stainless steel material.
- Has an aluminum flat circular plate like bottom which distributes heat evenly.
- Comes with durable riveted handles made of stainless steel.
- Large size suitable for different functions.
- Works on both Induction and other energy sources.
The Cooks Standard Classic Stainless Steel Stockpot is a 12-Quart pot constructed with polished high quality stainless steel. It has an aluminum flat circular plate like base which helps distribute heat fast and evenly round the pot.
The pot has a cover made of stainless steel which helps retain heat, pressure and moisture in the pot. This enables you food cook properly and retain its flavor. Part of the pot is deliberately narrowed to make pouring easy and without dripping.
The two stainless steel handles are securely fastened to the pot by rivets. This makes the handles firm with remote possibility of yanking off when under pressure of weight. It also helps the handles remain cool even when the pot is hot or cooking.
Because of the size of this pot, it can be used to can your food and to prepare other soup and stew apart from your gumbo. The pot is induction compatible and can be used in the oven up to a temperature of 500F.
We recommend this pot for cooking gumbo because of its large capacity and user friendly features.
Best Extra Large Stainless Steel Gumbo cooking Pot
Product Name: Bayou Classic 1420 Stainless Steel Brew Kettle
Product Rating: 4.3 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Has a capacity of 20 quart
- Can be used to brew Malt extract from home.
- Pot can easily be sterilized before brewing because of stainless steel construction.
- Can serve many cooking purposes.
- It can serve as stockpot when cooking outdoor.
The Bayou Classic 1420 Stainless Steel Brew Kettle is made of premium stainless steel and has a capacity of 20 quarts. Because of its large size, it is particularly good for brewing.
Although this stockpot is designed for brewing malt extract for home brewing it also comes in handy for making gumbo for a large number of persons. The extra-large capacity makes it ideal for cookouts, picnics and other outdoor events involving a large number of persons.
The pot has measurement markings on the inside of this pot to help you determine the volume of liquid in the pot. For cooking that requires sterilizing the pot before use, the stainless steel material of the pot makes this easy.
This pot has a hemispherical vault cover with a handle for ease of lifting the lid. The pot also has two stainless steel handles for carrying. The pot is easy to clean as it can be washed with a dishwasher.
We recommend this pot as good for cooking gumbo because of its extra-large capacity and versatile use.
Best Aluminum Gumbo Cooking Pot
Product Name: Cajun Classic 14-Quart Aluminum Stock Pot – GL10075
Product Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Pot is made of dense aluminum material.
- Has a capacity of 14 quarts.
- The aluminum make of the pot makes cleaning easy.
- Pot is easy to maintain.
- Comes with a coordinating lid.
The Cajun Classic 14-Quart Aluminum Stock Pot is a product that’s highly rated by verified users. It is constructed with dense aluminum material which is reputed to be long lasting. Cookware made of aluminum usually have the ability to heat fast and are good at even distribution of heat. It has a lid that covers the pot properly and firmly.
This cookware is an ideal size for making gumbo for a minimum of 25 persons and you can also prepare your stew, soup, chili and all types of recipes! There is no restriction as to what you can boil with this pot so long as you regulate the temperature. You can also easily clean and maintain it since your gumbo or other recipes will not stick to the bottom.
This Cajun Classic 14-Quart Aluminum Stock Pot can also serve for outdoor programs as you can cool your drinks with it. Like most aluminum cookware the pot is easy to clean and manage but may burn your food under intense heat. This pot however comes at a very fair and affordable price when compared to its utility.
We therefore recommend this pot for cooking gumbo for its affordability and design.
Best Designed Enamel Pot For Cooking Gumbo
Product Name: Rachael Ray 46326 Enamel on Steel Stock Pot
Product Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Stockpot is made from high quality stainless steel.
- Has robust handles that gives a firm grip on the pot.
- The pot is resistant to stain.
- Pot is both suitable for Induction cooking and is safe for oven use.
- Comes with tightly fitted lid.
The Rachael Ray 46326 Enamel on Steel Stock Pot is made of stout and rugged long lasting steel material. It has a smooth glossy coated exterior that brightens your kitchen and adds to its aesthetics. The pot has two tough curved handles for firm carrying of the pot.
The firm handle also enables you to safely and conveniently move the pot from the cooktop to your oven. The cover of the pot sits firmly on the pot and is tightly fitted enough as to retain heat, pressure and moisture in the pot.
This stockpot is resistant to stain and can be easily cleaned. The pot is induction safe and can be used in the oven on a temperature of not more than 450 Degrees Fahrenheit.
This enamel stockpot is a desirable kitchen cookware for your gumbo recipes. It can also serve as a seafood pot, chili pot or pot for preparing a one-pot meal.
The large capacity of this cookware coupled with its versatile use as well as great steel design makes it stand out. We recommend this pot for its strong, rugged and beautiful design.
Best Anodized Pot For Cooking Gumbo
Product Name: Cuisinart 6466-26 Contour Hard Anodized 12-Quart Stockpot with Cover
Product Rating: 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Manufactured with hard aluminum coated with oxide.
- Has excellent heat distribution.
- Interior is high quality nonstick.
- Handles are specially made with wood for cool and comfortable handling.
This Cuisinart Stock Pot is a high quality pot made of the most durable material. This pot is designed to provide top notch cooking from the oxide coated aluminum material it is made of. It is good for preparing your gumbo, soup, stew and chili and also for brewing your drinks. This pot has the capacity to make gumbo for the entire family and for good number of visitors.
This pot is designed in the form of large pots used in boiling liquid and this design is deliberate. The bulge on the base of the pot makes it difficult for liquid to spill over from the pot. This cookware is thus very well suited for your gumbo which has a tendency of overflowing while cooking because of the Okra pod.
The hardened glass lid of this pot and the rims seal are made to endure heat so they can last for a long time. The pot is adapted to stovetops and can be used in the oven with a maximum temperature degree of 500°F.
We recommend this pot for its outstanding design and the anodized material it is made of.
Product Name: College Kitchen 47632 LSU Tigers Stock Pot with Lid
Product Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Made of enamel coated steel material.
- Material of manufacture ensures fast and even heating of the pot.
- 12 quart capacity of pot enough for meal for a team.
- Pot lid is tightly fitted to retain heat pressure and moisture.
- Pot is adapted for use on induction stoves and oven.
The College Kitchen 47632 LSU Tigers Stock Pot is a school branded pot ideal for making gumbo and a wide variety of recipes. The pot is a steel product coated in enamel which is why it has that hard glossy finish. You can be assured of perfectly cooked gumbo with this pot as it distributes heat evenly.
The pot comes with a tightly fitted lid which helps it retain heat, pressure and moisture. This pot can serve as your portable cooler for your drinks during an outdoor event or party. Your drinks will remain cold for a long time with the addition of ice.
Because of the background design of this pot, its appeal and attraction to students is inevitable. Sports loving men and women would also be attracted to it since it comes with a sports team logo.
The pot has well-built handles that makes you carry the pot with ease and confidence. It is adapted to induction stoves and can be used in the oven with a maximum temperature of 450°F.
We recommend this pot for cooking gumbo for its aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Another Gumbo Pot from Bayou Classic made of Cast Iron
Product Name: Bayou Classic 7419 11-Quart Cast-Iron Jambalaya Pot/Deep Fryer with Domed Lid
Product Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- It is an 11 quart capacity pot.
- Pot has a rounded cover.
- Pot is made of tough cast iron material.
- Comes with wire handles that swing.
- Base of pot is flat.
The Bayou Classic 7419 11-Quart Cast-Iron Jambalaya Pot is a uniquely designed unconventional cooking pot that is made of sturdy cast iron. Its interior is rounded with a flattened base that enables it maintain good balance on a gas cooker for outdoor functions. Because of the solid material with which this pot is made, the long lifespan of this pot can be taken for granted.
This pot is good for preparing your gumbo, stew and jambalaya and will be a good companion for your outdoor events. The handles of the pot are made to assume a reclining position and can also be made to stay at an angle of 45 degrees so it can be shielded from direct heating.
This pot also has an opening that enables you pour your gumbo or other sauces and stew without spilling in an uncoordinated manner. The rounded cover of this pot also has a curved handle made of cast iron to enable lifting.
It is recommended that this pot be seasoned with pork or edible fat to act as a rust resistant and make your food not stick to the pot. This pot can easily be washed by scrubbing with detergent and drying it immediately.
We recommend this pot as good for cooking gumbo because of its durability as an iron cast product.
Product Name: T-fal B36262 Specialty Total Stockpot Cookware, 12-Quart, Black
Product Rating: 4.6 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Both exterior and interior of pot are nonstick.
- Glass lid enable you monitor your cooking without opening the pot.
- Has vent hole that enables escape of steam preventing the pot from boiling over.
- Compatible with all cooktops.
- Comes with lifetime warranty that is limited.
The T-fal B36262 Specialty Total Nonstick Stockpot is a pot with capacity of 12 quart. This pot size can conveniently prepare enough meals including gumbo for a family because it is deep. It can also be used to make a good quantity of gumbo as well as stew or soup for storing in your freezer. You can also use it to sauté onions without smoking the entire kitchen before you add other ingredients.
The distinct glass cover of the pot enables you monitor the progress of your cooking without opening it. The vent hole on the pot cover is meant to provide an escape route for steam threatening to boil over and spill. The strong and rugged handles of the pot are fastened to the body with rivets to facilitate safe and comfortable grip. The handles are made stay cool so no fear of being burnt.
Because the pot is nonstick, your food will not stick inside neither will stubborn stains adhere on the external. The material with which the pot is constructed also makes the pot heat round evenly thus enhancing the quality of your cooking.
We recommend this pot as good for cooking gumbo because it is user friendly and versatile in use.
Best Extra Large Granite Pot for Cooking Gumbo
Product Name: Granite Ware Stock Pot, 21-Quart
Product Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 stars
Features
- Pot has a 34 quart capacity.
- Made of steel with low carbon content and is glass coated.
- Pot is free of PFOA’s.
- The center of pot distributes heat evenly.
- It is a premium American product.
The Granite Ware Stock Pot is good for making gumbo, soups and stews as well other meals such as chili, pasta, corn and other recipes. With the 34 quart capacity of this pot, you can afford to cook large quantity of gumbo with this pot.
The material with which this pot is made is a merger of ceramic ware and steel by intense heat. The final product is this pot that has a smooth shinny glass finish that is both heat and stain resistant. The pot is equally non porous and corrosion resistant making it difficult for the pot to trap the particles of food and odor.
This pot is free from PFOA’s and other chemicals used in coating pots to make them nonstick. The taste or color of your food will also not be affected in any way. The pot cleans easily and is long lasting because of the smooth glass surface that looks laminated.
The pot has some tiny indentures made in the process of heating the pot materials. These marks have not compromised the elegant finishing of the pot or its utility. We recommend this pot for cooking gumbo for the materials it is made of and its extra-large capacity.
Buying Guide For Cookware
Whenever you watch shows that major on food and cooking, your attention is not usually on the menu and recipes alone. Most times you get introduced to new cookware that you wish you could acquire. It is important to note that the best cookware for your cooking may not necessarily be the costliest.
Inasmuch as you would want to fill you kitchen shelf with top graded cookware, the quality of cookware you purchase is important for many reasons. Which is why you need to be properly guided by having the right information regarding the cookware you wish to purchase.
This guide is meant to provide you with some of the basic and important information you need to make a good purchase of gumbo pot.
Stock Taking
You may need to take a second look at the pot, pans and plates you presently have to enable you determine what additions to make. These additions may be necessitated by the need to replace old and worn out stock. The need could also arise due to expansion or upgrade of your cooking experience. Whichever it is, the need to look at what you presently have is not a bad idea.
There might be a pot in your arsenal that’s just right for cooking gumbo.
Frequently Cooked Meals
The choice of the cookware to purchase can be greatly influenced by the kind of meals you prepare frequently. This will influence your choice of materials. For example, if you are fond of roasting meat, the cast iron cookware will facilitate total browning of your meat.
Since we are discussing best pots as far as making gumbo is concerned, you would best be looking at pots that can simmer for long without burning the contents. This is one of the predominant feature of all the pots we have reviewed in this post.
Consider the cooktop you use
The cookware you want to purchase will definitely be used on cooktop. Pots with flat bottoms will be good for cooktops that are smooth. Rounded pots will sit better on burners or stoves that have vents or slits. Pots and pans that are to be used on induction cooktops should have some magnetic properties to help your cookware adhere to the cooktop.
So before you decide that a particular pot is good for your gumbo recipes, ensure that it is compatible with your cooktop or the cooktop you would use it on.
Materials Used To Make The Pot
The material your cookware is made of would determine what type of recipe it is most suited for
Stainless steel materials
Stainless steel materials are known to be durable, heat food fast and uniformly, not affect food taste and color and easy to clean. The typical stainless steel that is not coated does a good job of browning by frying and cooking in liquid. Stainless steel materials equally perform well under pressure. However, they may be difficult to clean if not coated.
Enameled Cast Iron
Cast Iron material are said to be enameled when they have been painted to a hard glossy finish that gives them that ceramic look. They do not heat very fast bur they do so evenly round the pot. Enamel cast iron cookware also retains heat for a long time and can withstand very high temperature.
It is resistant to corrosion and can be used on both stovetop and in the oven. Pots made with this material are good for frying, sautéing, roasting, slow cooking, stewing, searing and browning. Even though the material is heavy, it is easy to wash
Non Coated Cast Iron
Cast iron that is uncoated are very durable and said to be naturally nonstick. It can withstand very high temperature but can rust if not well maintained. The pot needs to be seasoned before use to avoid food sticking to the pot and attracting pot taste and odor to your food. Non coated cast iron pots however are usually difficult to clean.
Carbon and Blue Steel materials
Cookware made of carbon or blue steel materials are very popular and preferred by professionals. This is because they are highly functional, durable and brings out the best in your cooking. They can be used on all cooktops including induction. They can be wiped cleaned with paper towels or by hand with soft brush and water that is mildly soapy.
Copper
Cookware made of proper copper cook quite fast and round the pot but also cools down quickly. Copper cookware are good for high temperature cooking such as frying, searing and sautéing as well as mildly and slowly boiling your exquisite sauces. Because this material is reactive, they are usually laced with other materials that are nonreactive to conceal the taste and odor they would give your food. Cookware made of this material can however be easily dented. They are not dishwasher safe and not good for induction cooktops.
Aluminum
Cookware made of aluminum materials are very good conductors of heat, they are light in weight and come in good and affordable prices. Their major downside is that they stain and color your food as well as gives your food a taste and odor that is not good. Most aluminum cookware are coated these days to remove these effects. It is such materials that are referred to as anodized aluminum.
We took the time to give you a brief summary on all the materials that a pot can be made of. It is now left to you to choose which of these materials would work best for you considering the recipes that you want to make in them.
Bear in mind that at the beginning of this post, we mentioned that cast iron is the most highly recommended material for pots that are best for cooking gumbo.
That said however, any of the pots we have reviewed here would serve you well.
Glass Lids
Cookware that has glass lids obviously has the advantage of allowing you monitor your cooking while the pot is closed thereby helping retain steam pressure in your pot. These glass lids however usually makes the cookware heavier and could pose a safety issue if it breaks.
Stove or Oven Safe
It is important to note if the cookware you want to purchase can adapt to both stovetops and the oven. Even where the cookware can be used in the oven, it is important to confirm what heat limits it can bear. This information will become handy if you want a pot for meals that require quick heating as against those that require slow or low temperature.
Nonstick
Cookware with nonstick coatings that are durable will easily release your delicate meals and does not require much oil in your cooking. This enhances the health value of your food as some fat is eliminated from your food. These nonstick cookware can also be cleaned with ease.
Budget/Cost
So much can be said about the cost of a product and how it can impact on whether you would buy the product or not. But suffice it to say that you have to largely determine the value you would derive from a product in relation to the price.
Our take on how the cost of a product should affect your purchase are summarized as follows:-
- The quality of a product ought not to be determined just by the price tag. It’s possible to get great value at a reasonable price.
- Most premium quality products come at a high price so be prepared to spend a little higher than what you originally budgeted.
- It is the value and utility you get from a product that matters most so don’t ever lose that focus.
Conclusion
The T-fal B36262 Specialty Total Nonstick Stockpot comes first on our list because it is user friendly and versatile in use.
The Rachael Ray 46326 Enamel on Steel Stock Pot/Stockpot with Lid is our second best pot on this list because of it is strong, rugged and beautifully designed.
The IMUSA USA IMU-89303 Heavy Duty Cajun Oval Cast Aluminum Roaster 18″, Silver is our third choice for its multifunctional use and being leak-proof.
We hope this buying guide would help you make the best decision for the pot that would meet your specific needs. Check out our review of best crock pots; you may find a product that would fill a vacuum in your cookware set.