The best stocks are simmered slowly over steady, low heat. Calphalon's 12-qt. Stock Pot is crafted of heavy-gauge aluminum to cook ingredients evenly, at just the right temperature. Stick-resistant surface won't react with most foods. Includes flat, anodized lid.

Calphalon Commercial hard-anodized pans are made for the more serious cook who is looking for kitchenware built to last a lifetime. This large-size, 12-quart stockpot is good for soup, stews, and pasta, and its heavy-gauge aluminum construction also stands up to deep frying. The looped handles are easy to grip and stay cooler than you might expect, thanks to V-shaped splits where they meet the pan, but it's still a good idea to keep hot pads nearby. The nonporous and nonreactive hard-anodized surface resists sticking and doesn't affect the flavor or color of food. It's also tough enough to handle stainless-steel utensils and vigorous whisking. Unlike pans with plastic or wood handles, the extremely sturdy all-metal construction provides you the flexibility to take the pan to the oven or broiler. But do remember to hand wash your Calphalon pans--dishwasher detergents are bad for the finish and their use voids the lifetime warranty. --Dale Steinke