Kitchen Craft Pasta Pot with Steamer Insert 20cm 4 Litre Stainless Steel
Kitchen Craft Pasta Pot with Steamer Insert 20cm 4 Litre Stainless Steel
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Kitchen Craft Pasta Pot with Steamer Insert 20cm 4 Litre Stainless Steel
The Kitchen Craft Pasta Pot transforms pasta cooking from a potentially hazardous wrestling match with boiling water and colanders into a simple, safe lift-and-drain operation. The large perforated insert sits inside the pot during cooking, then lifts out complete with pasta—draining occurs instantly through the holes whilst boiling water remains safely in the pot below. No carrying heavy pots to the sink, no balancing colanders under running taps, no risk of burns from steam and splashing. Just lift, drain, and serve.
This ingenious all-in-one system comprises a 4-litre stainless steel stockpot, large perforated pasta insert, smaller colander insert for vegetables and fruit, and vented toughened glass lid. Beyond pasta, the pot functions as a standard stockpot for soups, stews, and sauces, whilst the steamer insert cooks vegetables perfectly. The quality stainless steel construction with riveted handles suits all hob types including induction, and the entire set is dishwasher safe for effortless cleanup.
Key features:
- Instant pasta draining: Lift perforated insert out—pasta drains automatically through holes
- Three-in-one functionality: Pasta pot, steamer, and standard stockpot in one versatile system
- Generous 4-litre capacity: Accommodates 300-400g dried pasta serving 3-4 people
- Two inserts included: Large perforated insert for pasta/steaming, smaller colander for vegetables/fruit
- Glass lid with vent: Monitor cooking progress whilst allowing steam to escape
- Durable construction: Quality stainless steel with riveted side handles
- Universal compatibility: All hob types including induction, gas, electric, ceramic
- Dishwasher safe: Easy cleanup after cooking
This pasta pot suits anyone who regularly cooks pasta and wants safer, easier draining, households seeking versatile cookware that serves multiple purposes, families tired of juggling heavy pots over sinks, or home cooks who appreciate Italian cooking traditions requiring generous water volumes.
What Customers Ask About the Kitchen Craft Pasta Pot
How does the perforated insert make draining easier?
The perforated insert sits inside the pot whilst pasta cooks. When ready, simply lift the insert out using its handles—the pasta drains instantly through the holes whilst boiling water remains safely in the pot below. This eliminates the need to carry a heavy pot to the sink, pour boiling water whilst holding a colander, or risk burns from steam and splashing. The insert does all the draining work automatically as you lift it. No colander required, no sink needed, significantly safer than traditional draining methods.
What's the difference between the two inserts?
The large perforated insert fills most of the pot and is designed for cooking and draining full portions of pasta (300-400g dried) or steaming vegetables. The smaller colander insert is for draining smaller pasta portions, rinsing vegetables, or washing fruit. Having both inserts provides flexibility for different cooking tasks and portion sizes. You might use the large insert for family pasta dinners and the small insert for quick vegetable sides or individual pasta portions.
Will 4 litres be enough for a family?
A 4-litre capacity typically accommodates 300-400g of dried pasta, serving 3-4 people generously with proper Italian cooking technique (abundant water for al dente texture). For larger families (5-6 people) or if you prefer very generous water volumes, you may need to cook pasta in batches. Consider your typical family size and pasta consumption when deciding. Most households find 4 litres adequate for regular meals, though large gatherings may require batch cooking.
Can I use this on my induction hob?
Yes, the stainless steel base is suitable for all hob types including induction, gas, electric, and ceramic. The 20cm diameter should work with most induction hob zones, though check your specific hob's zone sizes if you have an unusually small or large induction cooking area. The flat base ensures good contact for efficient induction heating.
Is the glass lid oven-safe?
No, this pot is not oven-proof. The glass lid and overall construction are designed for hob use only. If you need a pot for both hob and oven use, consider stainless steel cookware specifically rated for oven temperatures. This pasta pot excels at hob-based cooking tasks—pasta, steaming, soups, and stews—where oven use isn't required.
Why Pasta Cooking Technique Matters
In our 52 years helping customers select cookware, we've observed that many home cooks underestimate the importance of proper pasta cooking technique. Italian tradition specifies abundant water—typically 1 litre per 100g of dried pasta—to prevent sticking and achieve authentic al dente texture. Insufficient water causes pasta to cook unevenly, stick together, and develop a starchy, gummy exterior.
The challenge with generous water volumes is draining. Carrying a 4-5kg pot (water plus pasta) to the sink whilst trying to position a colander creates genuine burn risk from steam, splashing, and pot handling. Many home cooks reduce water volume simply to make draining manageable, compromising pasta quality. This pasta pot's lift-out insert solves this fundamental problem—you can use proper water volumes without wrestling with dangerous drainage.
The insert design also preserves the starchy pasta water, which Italian cooking considers precious. Professional chefs and home cooks who understand pasta technique often reserve some cooking water to adjust sauce consistency—the starches help bind sauce to pasta. With the traditional colander method, this water pours down the drain. With the insert method, you lift out perfectly drained pasta whilst the valuable cooking water remains in the pot, ready for sauce adjustment if needed. This seemingly simple design detail actually enables more authentic Italian cooking technique at home.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash all components in warm, soapy water, rinse, and dry thoroughly. The stainless steel may benefit from a light coating of cooking oil on first use, which helps with initial seasoning.
Cooking pasta: Fill the pot with water—aim for approximately 1 litre per 100g of dried pasta. Place the large perforated insert into the pot (it should sit comfortably with handles resting on the pot rim). Add salt to the water (optional but traditional). Bring water to a rolling boil, add pasta to the insert, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When pasta reaches desired doneness, carefully lift the insert out using both handles—wear oven gloves as handles and insert will be hot. The pasta drains automatically through perforations. Set the insert with drained pasta aside, tip the remaining water down the sink, or reserve some for sauce adjustment.
Steaming vegetables: Add approximately 2-3cm of water to the pot base. Place the steamer insert above the water level (it should sit elevated). Bring water to boil, add vegetables to the insert, cover with the glass lid. Steam until tender—the vented lid allows excess steam to escape whilst maintaining cooking temperature. Lift out the insert carefully when vegetables are ready.
Using as standard stockpot: Remove both inserts and use the base pot for soups, stews, sauces, or any liquid-based cooking. The 4-litre capacity suits most soup and stew recipes serving 4-6 people.
Cleaning: Allow all components to cool before cleaning. Whilst dishwasher safe, hand washing extends the life and appearance of stainless steel cookware. Wash in warm, soapy water with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge. For stubborn residue, soak in warm water, then wash. Dry immediately to prevent water spots. If white mineral deposits develop from hard water, use a mixture of vinegar and water to remove them, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Glass lid care: The toughened glass lid is durable but can break if dropped or knocked against hard surfaces. Clean with warm, soapy water. Avoid extreme temperature changes—don't place a hot lid directly on cold surfaces or in cold water. The vent hole allows steam to escape during cooking whilst maintaining temperature—ensure it's not blocked by food debris.
Avoiding damage: Don't use metal scourers or abrasive cleaners which can scratch stainless steel. Never leave empty pots on heated hobs—always have water or food in the pot during heating. When using on gas hobs, ensure flames don't extend up the sides of the pot. On induction, use appropriate power settings to prevent overheating.
Storage: Nest the inserts inside the pot for compact storage. Store the glass lid separately or on top, using a tea towel between the lid and inserts to prevent scratching or chipping. Ensure all components are completely dry before storing to prevent moisture-related issues.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care. We stock Kitchen Craft products because they represent practical innovation at accessible pricing—solving genuine cooking frustrations through thoughtful design rather than unnecessary complexity.
Our Expertise Promise
The Kitchen Craft pasta pot demonstrates how simple design innovation can transform everyday cooking tasks. The lift-out insert concept eliminates a genuinely hazardous aspect of pasta cooking whilst enabling proper Italian technique with generous water volumes. The multi-purpose functionality—pasta pot, steamer, stockpot—represents the versatility customers value in kitchens where storage is limited. This balance of safety, functionality, and value embodies the approach we've prioritised throughout our 52 years.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked with it. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when purchasing cookware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this pasta pot or its components, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damage are acceptable. This provides protection beyond the manufacturer's 12-month guarantee.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
Can I use both inserts simultaneously?
The inserts are designed to be used individually, not stacked together. Use the large perforated insert for pasta cooking or steaming, or use the small colander insert for draining or rinsing tasks. Attempting to stack them during cooking would likely be unstable and impractical. The versatility comes from having two different inserts for different tasks, not from using them together.
Does the insert sit securely or can it tip?
The insert's handles rest on the pot rim, providing stable positioning during cooking. When properly seated, the insert won't tip during normal stirring or cooking. However, always use both hands when lifting the insert out—it will be heavy with water-logged pasta and very hot. The riveted handles on both pot and insert provide secure grip points for safe handling.
Can I add pasta directly to boiling water or must I use the insert?
For the instant-drain benefit, pasta must cook in the insert. If you add pasta directly to water in the base pot without the insert, you'll need to drain traditionally using a separate colander. The system works by having pasta contained within the perforated insert during cooking—when you lift it out, the pasta drains immediately. Using the insert from the start is essential to the design's convenience and safety benefits.
Will starchy pasta water clog the perforations?
No, the perforations are sized to allow both water and steam to pass freely during cooking and draining. Pasta starch may temporarily coat the insert during use, but it rinses away easily during cleaning. If perforations appear blocked after cooling, soak the insert in warm, soapy water before washing—any residue will soften and rinse clean. The stainless steel construction resists staining and buildup.
Can I use this for rice or other grains?
Whilst designed primarily for pasta, you can cook rice in the base pot without the insert, using it as a standard saucepan. The insert isn't ideal for rice cooking as grains may fall through the perforations or become difficult to remove. For pasta, vegetables, and steaming tasks, the system works excellently. For rice and other small grains, use the base pot alone with a separate lid or standard cooking methods.
How do I prevent pasta from sticking to the insert?
Use sufficient water (aim for 1 litre per 100g of pasta), ensure water is at a rolling boil before adding pasta, stir occasionally during the first few minutes of cooking, and maintain a gentle boil throughout cooking. These traditional techniques prevent sticking whether using a pasta insert or standard pot. Adding a small amount of salt to the water is traditional and may help reduce sticking, though proper water volume and stirring are more important factors.
What's covered under the 12-month guarantee?
The manufacturer's guarantee typically covers defects in materials or workmanship under normal domestic use. This includes issues like handles detaching, lid glass breaking during normal use (not from dropping), or pot base warping. Damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear isn't covered. Our own Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement for 2 years provides additional protection beyond the manufacturer's guarantee. Contact us if you experience any issues and we'll work with you to resolve them satisfactorily.
