Hi friends,
If anything can rival our love for “pumpkin spice latte” season, it’s gotta be…soup season babyyyy! 😋
As the weather grows colder, there’s nothing better than curling up with a warm bowl of soup (and a good book! Don’t forget there’s still time to preorder Jen & Jill’s book Buy What You Love Without Going Broke so you can get cozy with some great content on values-based spending in just a few short weeks!).
We love how easy it is to whip up a great soup on a budget, and the right pot can make all the difference.
Let’s dive into what to consider when buying pots, ensuring you get the best bang for your buck. AND check out some of our favorite quality pots at reasonable prices on Amazon! **
🥘 Under the Lid: Three Things to Consider When Buying a New Pot
1. Material. 🛠️ The material of your pot affects its performance, durability, and price.
Here are some common options:
-
Stainless Steel: Highly durable and resistant to rust and corrosion. While they’re great at evenly distributing heat, they can feel frustrating, especially to newer cooks, because they take more effort to avoid food sticking to the bottom.
-
Non-stick: Easy to clean. However, they can wear out over time and may release harmful chemicals if overheated. Look for PFOA-free options.
-
Cast Iron: Excellent heat retention and versatility (can be used on the stovetop and in the oven). It’s heavy and requires some maintenance (like seasoning), but it lasts a lifetime with proper care.
-
Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable, but tends to warp over time. If you’re on a budget, a well-made aluminum pot can provide excellent heat conduction at a lower price point.
-
Crockpot: We’d be selling everyone short if we failed to mention this rockstar. Crockpots are so versatile and great for meal prepping!
2. Size, Shape, and Storage. 📐 Pots come in various sizes, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in your cooking efficiency (and ability to store while not in use!).
Consider the following:
-
Capacity: Think about how many people you typically cook for. A larger pot is great for soups and stews, while smaller ones work well for side dishes or sauces.
-
Shape: Deeper pots are better for boiling pasta or making stocks, while wider pots are ideal for frying or browning meats. Make sure the shape suits your most common cooking tasks.
3. Budget Considerations. 💵 Quality pots can be an investment, but there are ways to save:
-
Set vs. Individual Pieces: Buying a pot set may save you money compared to purchasing individual pieces. However, ensure the set includes sizes you’ll actually use.
-
Second-Hand Finds: Thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces can be treasure troves for gently used pots at a fraction of the retail price.
-
Sales and Discounts: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or clearance items, especially during holidays or after the new year.
-
⚠️ Check for Warranties! Some pots and pot sets come with warranties, so your purchase is extra protected. 🙂
All this talk about pots and cooking definitely brings back memories of all my cooking mishaps. If anyone else can relate, it’s probably a good time to check our home insurance policies.
Policygenius is an insurance comparison marketplace that helps you find the best home, auto, & life insurance! **
Spending is a skill and you can learn to master it. If you’ve ever struggled with being unable to stick to a budget or felt guilty about spending on something you enjoy, Jen and Jill’s upcoming book is going to be your next favorite read.
Grab your pre-order gifts. Free With EVERY pre-order. 🥳
All the best,
Misti
⭐️⭐️ P.S. Want to share all this goodness with your friends AND earn cool Frugal Friends merch?
**Means this is a sponsored or affiliate section. We may earn a small fee or commission when you choose to try one of our sponsor or affiliate partners. But opinions are still 1000% our own.
