With their versatile heating options and wide array of functions, crockpots and crock pots/hot pots are two terms that can often be used interchangeably. While there are some key differences between these two types of slow cookers, both are air heating cookers that are great for cooking soups, stews, chili, and all your favorite comfort food recipes.
Where one type of slow cooker is generally smaller and intended for use on your stovetop, a hot pot is a larger, countertop version of the same type of slow cooker. Both are made for using on induction stoves or electric stovetops.
Its also important to note, that a hot pot can refer to a type of dish common in Asian cuisine. Use a hot pot/crock pot to boil many different ingredients together at the table.
Use this guide to learn more about the differences between a hot pot and a crock pot, when to use each, and recommendations on which type of slow cooker is best for your needs.
What is a Hot Pot?
Similar to a Crock Pot, a hot pot is a type of slow cooker that uses high heat, air, and steam to cook food. These types of cookers come with a perforated metal steaming insert so that you can add your favorite ingredients and let them simmer in the juices they produce while keeping other foods warm on a stovetop or in the oven.
The cooking pot of a hot pot is generally larger, making the kitchen appliance ideal for making large quantities of soups, stews, and chili. With a hot pot, you can also simmer foods in liquid similar to a slow cooker, making them easier to prepare with less washing up.
Similar to a crock pot, a hot pot’s heat is retained very well once its lid is sealed shut, meaning you can set it on the kitchen counter and not worry about it burning your hands or damaging cabinets.
What is a Crock Pot?
Crock pots and hot pots are both types of countertop slow cookers that are great for making soups, stews, and chili. Both cookers also have a “low” and “high” setting, with the low setting generally being more suitable for soups, stews, and chili, while the high setting is better for making hummus, casseroles, and other less soupy dishes.
The name “crock” is a slang term derived from the Dutch word krock, which means “rock.” This name likely alludes to the fact that the crockpot is used as a rock to keep food warm while you are busy elsewhere in the house.
Crock pots and hot pots are generally larger versions of regular slow cookers. They both have a removable cooking pot and a lid with a locking mechanism to prevent splashing while in use.
Both types of slow cookers can be used on induction stoves and electric stovetops, but the larger hot pots can also be used on gas stoves or outdoor burners.
Main Differences Between a Hot Pot and a Crock Pot
Here are some key differences between a hot pot and a crock pot:
Crockpots generally have a low and high setting and can be electric, while hot pots are usually gas operated heat setting.
Crock pots generally have a glass or earthenware cooking pot, while hot pots have a metal cooking pot.
Crockpots usually have a lid with a locking mechanism, while hot pots do not.
Crock pots are generally intended for use on your stovetop, while hot pots can be used on induction stoves or electric stovetops, and at the table ( think asian hot pots)
Both hot pots and crock pots can be used to make stews, soups, chili, and other soupy dishes, but hot pots are generally better suited to this purpose.
Final Words: Is a Hot Pot or a Crock Pot better for you?
Both hot pots and crock pots are great for making hearty, delicious soups, stews, and chili. If you want to enjoy this type of food more often, consider investing in a hot pot.
A larger appliance that can be used on your stovetop or in your kitchen, a hot pot is ideal for large family meals or serving a large number of football fans.