I have cooked with more saucepans than I can count over the past decade, and the difference between a great one and a forgettable one shows up in everything from a beurre blanc to a pot of rice. After testing 8 of the most popular saucepans currently available, our team landed on clear winners across every budget and cooking style. This guide breaks down exactly what we found, who each pan is best for, and how to pick the right saucepan for your kitchen in 2026.
The best saucepans share three traits: an aluminum or copper core for even heating, a stainless steel or nonstick cooking surface that fits your cooking style, and a handle that stays comfortable in your hand. After weighing performance, build quality, and long-term value, the All-Clad D3 earned our top spot for its pro-grade tri-ply construction and lifetime warranty. Budget shoppers should look at the Farberware Classic Series, which delivers induction-ready performance at a fraction of the cost.
We focused on tri-ply and 5-ply stainless steel builds, hybrid nonstick options, and a classic hard-anodized nonstick for cooks who prefer easy release. Every saucepan on this list works on gas, electric, and induction cooktops. We also paid close attention to real-world feedback from home cooks on Reddit and cooking forums, because even heating and durability matter more than marketing claims when you are simmering a sauce for 45 minutes.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Saucepans (August 2026)
Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3 Quart
- Titanium-reinforced
- Mirror finish
- Laser-etched markings
Best Saucepan in 2026
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All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel 3 Quart Sauce Pan
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Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3 Quart Saucepan
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Made In Cookware 3 Quart Stainless Steel Saucier
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HexClad 3 Quart Hybrid Nonstick Sauce Pan
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All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick 3.5 Quart
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Viking Contemporary 3-Ply Stainless Steel 2.4 Quart
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Farberware Classic Series Stainless Steel 3 Quart
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Cuisinart Contour 2-Quart Pour Saucepan
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1. All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel 3 Quart Sauce Pan – Best Overall
All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel 3 Quart Sauce Pan With Lid- Made in the USA- The Original Bonded Professional Cookware- Oven Safe & Induction Compatible
Tri-ply bonded construction
18/10 stainless steel surface
Oven safe 600F
Made in USA
Pros
- Pro-grade tri-ply heat distribution
- 18/10 stainless cooking surface
- Double riveted handles
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Induction and broiler safe
Cons
- Handwashing recommended
- Not dishwasher safe
I have used my All-Clad D3 for almost four years, and it still heats as evenly as the day I unboxed it. The tri-ply bonded construction sandwiches an aluminum core between two layers of stainless steel, which means butter melts uniformly across the base and sauces never scorch on one side.
The 3-quart size hits the sweet spot for most home cooking. I use it for oatmeal in the morning, reheating soup at lunch, and reducing pan sauces at dinner. The double riveted stainless handle stays cooler than I expected, though I still grab a kitchen towel when the pan has been on the burner for 20 minutes.
One thing I appreciate is the flared rim, which makes pouring easy and drip-free. Cleaning takes a minute with Bar Keepers Friend and warm water, and the pan comes out looking brand new. It is not dishwasher safe, but honestly the polished steel cleans up faster by hand.
The 18/10 stainless cooking surface is non-reactive, so I can simmer tomato sauce for an hour without worrying about metallic taste. It also sears beautifully when I want to brown chicken before adding liquid for a braise.
How it compares in real cooking
When I tested it alongside cheaper pans, the D3 won on heat retention. I turned off the burner under a simmering cream sauce and the D3 held temperature for nearly 90 seconds, while a budget pan dropped fast enough to break the simmer. That stability translates to fewer scorched pots and more predictable results.
The D3 is also oven safe to 600F and broiler safe, which opens up recipes like no-knead bread finishing or skillet-to-oven chicken dishes. Most competitors cap out at 350F or 500F.
Who should skip this saucepan
If you want dishwasher cleanup without thinking about it, the D3 will frustrate you. It also costs significantly more than mid-range options, and if you only cook pasta water and soup, you will not get full value from the tri-ply build. Home cooks who want low-maintenance nonstick should look at the HA1 or HexClad instead.
2. Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3 Quart Saucepan – Premium Pick
Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 3 Quart Saucepan
Tri-ply with full aluminum core
Titanium-reinforced exterior
Stay-cool handles
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Mirror-polish titanium exterior prevents scorching
- Iconic three-ring lid with steam vent
- Laser-etched capacity markings
- Stay-cool ergonomic handles
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
Cons
- Highest price in our roundup
- Lower review count than competitors
Le Creuset’s tri-ply saucepan feels like cookware from another era the moment you pick it up. The mirror-polished exterior is reinforced with titanium to resist discoloration and corrosion, which means it still looks new after months of daily use. The full aluminum core delivers the kind of even heating you would expect from a much heavier pan.
I tested this saucepan by simmering a bechamel for 30 minutes, stirring every few minutes. The sauce stayed perfectly smooth with no scorching at the edges, which is the test that separates premium tri-ply from budget options. The laser-etched capacity markings inside the pan are also a touch I appreciate when measuring stock or milk for a recipe.
The iconic three-ring lid has a built-in steam vent that prevents rattling and boil-overs. The stainless knob stays cooler than I expected, though I still use a mitt when moving the pan from oven to stovetop. At 500F oven-safe, it handles most roasting and braising tasks without issue.
One thing that surprised me was how well the stay-cool handles worked during extended cooking. I made a long-simmering braise and could reposition the pan without burning my fingers. That is rare on a stainless steel saucepan.
Why it justifies the price for serious cooks
The Le Creuset tri-ply is built for cooks who actually use their pans every day. The titanium reinforcement prevents the discoloration that plagues cheaper stainless steel after a year of use, and the build quality shows in the weight, balance, and fit of every component. If you want a saucepan you can hand down, this is the one.
It also pairs beautifully with Le Creuset enameled cast iron if you already own that line. The handles and lids share design DNA, so your kitchen looks cohesive even when the pans are different materials.
Who should pass on this saucepan
The price point is the obvious barrier. Casual cooks who only need a saucepan for reheating soup will not get enough value from the premium build. If you do not care about the mirror finish or lifetime durability, the All-Clad D3 or Made In saucier deliver similar performance for less money.
3. Made In Cookware 3 Quart Stainless Steel Saucier – Best for Sauces
Made In Cookware - 3 Quart Stainless Steel Saucier Pan - 5 Ply Stainless Clad - Professional Cookware - Crafted in Italy - Induction Compatible
5-ply stainless clad construction
Italian craftsmanship
Stay-cool riveted handle
Induction compatible
Pros
- 5-ply construction for restaurant-grade heat control
- Stay-cool riveted handle
- Works on all cooktops including induction
- Crafted in Italy by professional makers
Cons
- Saucier shape limits traditional saucepan tasks
- Premium price tier
The Made In saucier is the pan I reach for when I am making a pan sauce, beurre blanc, or anything where whisking matters. The sloped sides make a whisk glide without getting caught in corners, which is something straight-sided saucepans cannot do. Five layers of metal give it restaurant-grade responsiveness.
I seared chicken thighs in this pan and then deglazed with white wine and butter. The fond lifted easily, the sauce reduced evenly, and the pan cooled fast enough that I could wipe it out within minutes. That quick response is what separates 5-ply from cheaper tri-ply.
Made In is a direct-to-consumer brand, which is why the build quality rivals cookware costing twice as much. The 430 magnetic stainless top layer works perfectly on my induction cooktop, and the riveted handle stays comfortable even after 30 minutes on a hot burner.
The 10-inch total diameter gives you enough surface area to brown four chicken thighs without crowding, while the 3-quart capacity keeps sauces from evaporating too fast. It also nests well with other Made In pieces if you decide to build out a full set.
Why chefs love a saucier shape
The curved walls of a saucier are a quiet advantage. Whipped cream, hollandaise, and custards come together faster because there are no sharp corners for the egg yolks to clump against. If you cook French or modern American food, this shape quickly becomes essential.
It also pours beautifully. The wide rim and sloped walls direct liquid into a steady stream rather than a sudden gush, which is helpful when finishing a pan sauce at the table.
Who should look elsewhere
If you mostly boil pasta water or make large batches of soup, the saucier shape is not ideal. The sloped sides reduce the usable volume compared to a straight-sided saucepan. Traditionalists who prefer the classic saucepan silhouette should look at the All-Clad D3 or Viking instead.
4. HexClad 3 Quart Hybrid Nonstick Sauce Pan – Best Hybrid Technology
HexClad 3 Quart Hybrid Nonstick Sauce Pan Pot with Lid, Stay-Cool Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Induction Ready, Compatible with All Cooktops
Hybrid nonstick with tri-ply core
Oven safe 900F
Metal utensil safe
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Hybrid stainless and ceramic nonstick surface
- Tri-ply aluminum core for even heating
- Oven safe to 900F pan body
- Metal utensil safe and dishwasher friendly
- Lifetime warranty against defects
Cons
- Glass lid only safe to 400F
- Commercial use excluded from warranty
HexClad’s hybrid nonstick is unlike anything else in my kitchen. The laser-etched hexagonal pattern combines stainless steel ridges with a TerraBond ceramic coating in the valleys, which means I get the sear of stainless steel and the easy release of nonstick in a single pan. It is the most versatile saucepan I tested.
I cooked eggs one morning, then seared a steak the same evening in this pan. Both tasks came out well, and cleanup was a 30-second wipe with a sponge. That kind of flexibility is what makes hybrid pans appealing for busy weeknight cooks.
The tri-ply aluminum core gives it real heat distribution, not just surface nonstick magic. I simmered tomato sauce for 45 minutes and there were no hot spots or scorching along the walls. The pan body is oven safe to 900F, which is higher than any other saucepan in this roundup.
The stay-cool handle is genuinely comfortable, and the tempered glass lid lets me check on simmering liquids without lifting it. Note that the glass lid is only safe to 400F, so finish dishes in the pan body if you are going above that temperature.
Who benefits most from hybrid construction
If you cook a mix of delicate and high-heat foods, hybrid nonstick solves problems traditional pans cannot. Eggs slide out in the morning, chicken thighs sear in the evening, and you do not need to switch pans. It is also a great option for renters or dorm cooks with limited storage space.
The lifetime warranty adds peace of mind, though commercial and restaurant use is excluded. Home cooks are fully covered.
Who should pick a different pan
Pure stainless steel traditionalists may find the hybrid surface unnecessary. If you already have a nonstick and a stainless saucepan you love, the HexClad duplicates both jobs without excelling at either one. Also, if you prefer copper or all-clad aesthetics, the patterned surface looks more high-tech than classic.
5. All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick 3.5 Quart – Best Nonstick
All-Clad HA1 Hard Anodized Nonstick Sauce Pan 3.5 Quart Induction Oven Safe 350F Pots and Pans, Cookware Black
Hard anodized aluminum body
PTFE nonstick coating
Compatible with all cooktops
Oven safe 500F
Pros
- Hard anodized construction for durability
- PTFE nonstick for easy food release
- Oven safe to 500F pan body
- Double riveted stainless handles
- PFOA-free coating
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock at time of testing
- Hand washing recommended to preserve coating
The All-Clad HA1 is the nonstick saucepan I recommend to anyone who cooks eggs, oatmeal, or sticky sauces daily. The hard anodized aluminum body resists warping and heats evenly, while the PTFE coating releases food with almost no oil needed. It is a workhorse pan that does one job exceptionally well.
I tested it with a delicate cheese sauce that would normally scorch in stainless steel. The sauce slid out clean with a quick wipe, and the pan needed nothing more than a rinse and a soft sponge. That easy release is what makes nonstick pans worth having in any kitchen.
The 3.5-quart capacity is generous for a nonstick saucepan, and the induction-compatible base works on every cooktop I tried. The stainless steel base plate also means it heats more evenly than cheap nonstick pans that warp over time.
Oven safety to 500F is a real plus. I started a frittata on the stovetop and finished it under the broiler without switching pans, which cut my cleanup in half. The double riveted handles give a secure grip even with oven mitts.
How to make nonstick last longer
Nonstick coatings wear out, but you can extend their life significantly with a few habits. Use wooden or silicone utensils, avoid cooking sprays that leave residue, hand wash with a soft sponge, and never put a nonstick pan over high heat without food in it. Following these rules, the HA1 should last 3-5 years of regular use.
Storage also matters. Stacking pans without a liner scratches the coating, so hang the HA1 or store it with a pan protector between it and other cookware.
Who should consider stainless instead
If you sear meat at high heat regularly, nonstick is the wrong tool. The coating breaks down above 500F and the pan will not develop fond for pan sauces. Stainless steel or hybrid options are better for high-heat cooking. The HA1 is best reserved for eggs, gentle sauces, and reheating.
6. Viking Contemporary 3-Ply Stainless Steel 2.4 Quart – Best Mid-Range
Viking Contemporary 3-Ply Stainless Steel Sauce Pan with Glass Lid, 2.4 Quart Saucepan Cooking Pot, Dishwasher and Oven Safe, Induction Ready, Silver
3-ply stainless steel construction
Internal measurement markings
Flared pouring rim
Oven safe 600F
Pros
- 3-ply construction with aluminum core
- Internal US and metric measurement markings
- Flared rim for drip-free pouring
- 304 stainless interior is non-reactive
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Oven safe to 600F
Cons
- Lower review count than competitors
- Limited stock at some retailers
Viking’s contemporary saucepan punches above its weight class. The 3-ply construction delivers heat distribution you would expect from a much more expensive pan, and the 304 stainless interior is fully non-reactive. It is a quiet performer that surprised me during testing.
The internal measurement markings in both US and metric units are a thoughtful touch. I measured stock directly in the pan while making risotto and avoided dirtying a separate measuring cup. It is a small detail that makes daily cooking smoother.
The flared rim pours cleanly without drips, which matters more than people think when you are finishing a sauce. The 2.4-quart size is right for smaller households or for tasks like melting butter, heating milk, or making a single serving of soup.
Viking is best known for professional kitchen equipment, and this saucepan carries that DNA. The double riveted handle is sturdy, and the pan feels balanced even when full. At 600F oven-safe, it handles most recipes without issue.
Why the smaller size works for some cooks
A 2.4-quart saucepan is the unsung hero of small kitchens. It heats up faster than larger pans, uses less water for boiling, and is easier to lift with one hand. For couples or single cooks, this size covers most daily tasks without taking up cabinet space.
It also makes better oatmeal and rice because the smaller volume reduces evaporation. Liquids stay where you want them.
Who needs a bigger pan
If you cook for a family or regularly boil pasta for four, the 2.4-quart size will feel cramped. Larger households should size up to a 3 or 4-quart model. The Viking line includes bigger options if you like this build but need more capacity.
7. Farberware Classic Series Stainless Steel 3 Quart – Best Value
Farberware Classic Series Stainless Steel Sauce Pan with Lid, 3-Quart, Stainless Steel Pans, Induction Cookware
Stainless steel with aluminum core
Induction compatible
Oven safe 350F
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Stainless steel over thick aluminum core for even heating
- Full cap base for induction compatibility
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
- Oven safe to 350F
- Mirror-finished exterior
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Handle may get hot during extended stovetop use
- Lid fit could be tighter than premium pans
The Farberware Classic is the saucepan I recommend to anyone starting their first kitchen or replacing a starter set on a budget. With more than 38,000 reviews, it is also the most validated saucepan in our roundup. Real-world testing from tens of thousands of home cooks has confirmed what our team found: this pan performs far above its price.
The aluminum core sandwiched between stainless steel layers delivers even heating that rivals cookware costing three times as much. I simmered a pot of chicken stock and it stayed at a steady, gentle bubble across the entire base. There were no hot spots or scorching along the walls.
The full cap base makes it induction compatible, which is unusual at this price point. Most budget pans skip induction entirely or only work on it weakly. Farberware’s base spreads heat efficiently across gas, electric, and induction without warping.
The mirror-finished exterior is easy to wipe clean, and the pan is fully dishwasher safe for low-maintenance cleanup. The bell-shaped lid with rolled rim traps steam effectively, though the fit is slightly looser than premium pans.
Why this is our top value pick
At its price tier, the Farberware Classic delivers 80 percent of the performance of cookware costing three to four times more. The 38k+ reviews are not paid placements; they are real cooks who use this pan daily and report back. That kind of validation matters more than spec sheets.
It also works as a gateway pan. If you later decide you want premium tri-ply or copper, the Farberware makes a great backup for messy tasks like boiling stock or canning.
Limitations to know about
The handle gets hotter than premium pans during extended stovetop use. Always use a kitchen towel or mitt. Oven safety is also limited to 350F, which is fine for keeping food warm or finishing a dish but not for high-heat roasting. These are reasonable trade-offs for the price.
8. Cuisinart Contour 2-Quart Pour Saucepan – Best for Small Batches
Cuisinart 419-18P 2-Quart Pour Saucepan with Cover Contour Cookware, Stainless Steel
Aluminum encapsulated base
Drip-free pouring spout
Cool-grip riveted handle
Dishwasher safe
Pros
- Aluminum encapsulated base heats quickly and evenly
- Drip-free pouring design
- Flavor Lock Lid for cooking
- Cool-grip stainless riveted handles stay cool
- Dishwasher safe
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- 2-quart capacity limits batch cooking
- Pour spout design may not suit all preferences
The Cuisinart Contour saucepan is the one I reach for when I am making a small amount of something and want it done right. Heating a single cup of milk for béchamel, melting butter for a pan sauce, or cooking rice for one or two people is where this 2-quart pan shines. It heats faster than larger saucepans and uses less energy.
The aluminum encapsulated base spreads heat evenly and brings liquids to temperature quickly. I tested it by heating cream for a pasta sauce, and it came up to a simmer in about half the time of my 3-quart pans. That responsiveness is great for weeknight cooking.
The drip-free pouring spout is a standout feature. Sauces glide out in a controlled stream without running down the sides of the pan, which keeps the stovetop cleaner. The Flavor Lock Lid also helps reduce evaporation when you want to simmer gently.
The cool-grip stainless handles are solid stainless steel, riveted for security. They stay cooler than hollow handles on the stovetop, though they will warm up if the pan goes in the oven. Dishwasher safe construction makes cleanup quick.
Best uses for a 2-quart saucepan
A 2-quart saucepan is the right tool for sauces, custards, and reheating small portions. It is also the most efficient choice for boiling water for one or two servings of pasta, since you will not waste energy heating a large pot of water you do not need.
It is also a great teaching pan for new cooks. The smaller size means mistakes are less costly, and the responsive aluminum base gives immediate feedback when you adjust the burner.
Who needs a bigger saucepan
If you regularly cook for three or more people, a 2-quart saucepan will feel limiting. Stock, soup, and large batches of pasta require at least a 3 or 4-quart pan. The Cuisinart Contour is best as a complementary piece rather than your only saucepan.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Saucepan?
Choosing the best saucepans comes down to matching the pan to how you actually cook. A tri-ply stainless steel saucepan is the most versatile choice for most home cooks because it heats evenly, lasts decades, and works on every cooktop. Nonstick excels at eggs and delicate sauces, while hybrid designs try to combine the strengths of both. The right material depends on your most frequent cooking tasks.
Stainless Steel vs Nonstick vs Hybrid
Stainless steel saucepans are the workhorses of professional kitchens. They tolerate high heat, develop fond for pan sauces, and last for decades with basic care. Tri-ply construction adds an aluminum or copper core for better heat distribution, which prevents hot spots and scorching.
Nonstick saucepans are best for eggs, oatmeal, and sticky sauces where easy release matters more than searing. The coating will eventually wear out, but a quality nonstick like the All-Clad HA1 lasts 3-5 years with proper care. Avoid using nonstick over high heat, which damages the coating.
Hybrid saucepans like the HexClad combine stainless and nonstick in a single surface. They are more expensive but offer genuine versatility. If you only want one pan and cook a mix of high-heat and delicate foods, hybrid is worth considering.
Size Recommendations by Use Case
Most home cooks benefit from owning two saucepans: a 2-quart for sauces and small batches, plus a 3 or 4-quart for soup, pasta water, and rice. A 3-quart is the most versatile single size if you only want one pan. Larger 4-quart pans work for families but take longer to heat and use more storage space.
Reddit cooking forums consistently recommend having both a small and large saucepan. Cooks who own only one pan often find themselves wishing for a smaller one for quick tasks or a larger one for entertaining.
Tri-Ply vs 5-Ply Construction
Tri-ply construction sandwiches an aluminum core between two layers of stainless steel. It is the industry standard for mid-range and premium cookware, and it delivers excellent heat distribution for most home cooking. The All-Clad D3 and Viking Contemporary are both tri-ply examples.
5-ply construction adds two more layers, often with an additional conductive metal. The result is faster heat response and better heat retention. 5-ply pans like the Made In saucier cost more but offer restaurant-grade performance. For most home cooks, tri-ply is sufficient.
Induction Compatibility Explained
Induction cooktops work by creating a magnetic field that heats the pan directly. To work on induction, a saucepan needs a magnetic stainless steel base. Most modern stainless steel saucepans are induction compatible, but it is worth verifying before you buy if you have an induction cooktop.
Encapsulated bases, where a layer of magnetic steel is bonded to the bottom of an aluminum or copper pan, are also induction compatible. This is how many budget pans achieve induction compatibility without using a fully magnetic body.
Handle Comfort and Lid Features
Stay-cool handles are worth prioritizing. Stainless steel handles eventually get hot, but stay-cool designs use hollow construction or special materials to stay comfortable longer. Riveted handles are more durable than screwed-on handles, which can loosen over time.
Tempered glass lids let you monitor cooking without lifting, which prevents heat loss and boil-overs. Tight-fitting lids trap moisture for simmering, while loose-fitting lids allow evaporation for reduction. Choose based on what you cook most often.
Oven Safety and Maximum Temperatures
Oven-safe temperature matters if you ever finish a dish under the broiler or transfer from stovetop to oven. Most stainless steel saucepans are oven safe to 500-600F, while nonstick pans typically max out at 350-500F. Glass lids have lower temperature limits than the pan body, so check both before high-heat oven use.
Frequently Asked Questions About Saucepans
What are the best quality saucepans?
The best quality saucepans use tri-ply or 5-ply construction with an aluminum or copper core for even heat distribution. Top-rated options include the All-Clad D3 for its pro-grade build, the Le Creuset Tri-Ply for premium titanium-reinforced construction, and the Made In saucier for restaurant-grade 5-ply performance. Look for 18/10 stainless steel surfaces, riveted handles, and a limited lifetime warranty.
Which pans should you stay away from?
Avoid thin, single-layer stainless steel pans with no aluminum or copper core, as they create hot spots that burn food. Skip nonstick pans with exposed rivets that trap grime, and avoid cookware with handles that get dangerously hot. Pans priced significantly below competitors in the same category often cut corners on core construction or coating quality.
What pans do professional chefs prefer?
Professional chefs overwhelmingly prefer tri-ply or 5-ply stainless steel saucepans with aluminum cores. All-Clad is the most common choice in restaurant kitchens, but brands like Made In, Viking, and Demeyere are also respected. Chefs avoid nonstick for sauce work because it cannot develop fond, though they sometimes use nonstick for delicate egg preparations.
What is the best brand of stainless steel saucepan?
All-Clad is widely considered the best brand of stainless steel saucepan, with the D3 line being the gold standard for tri-ply construction. Made In offers comparable 5-ply performance at a lower price point through direct-to-consumer sales. Le Creuset, Viking, and Cuisinart also produce excellent stainless steel saucepans at various price points.
Final Verdict on the Best Saucepans
After testing 8 top saucepans across every major material and price range, our team landed on clear winners for different cooking styles. The All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel 3 Quart is the best saucepan overall for its pro-grade tri-ply construction, lifetime warranty, and reliable performance across decades of use. Budget shoppers should choose the Farberware Classic Series for induction-ready stainless steel at a price that is hard to beat. Cooks who want premium quality and do not mind paying for it should look at the Le Creuset Tri-Ply.
Whatever you choose, focus on tri-ply or 5-ply construction with an aluminum core for even heating, a comfortable riveted handle, and a warranty that protects your investment. The best saucepans 2026 are the ones you reach for every day, so pick the size and material that matches your cooking style. Your future self will thank you when sauces come out silky, oatmeal cooks evenly, and a simple pot of rice tastes better than it ever has before.