I first used this pot w/lid to reheat stuffed green peppers, using the spoon rest to occasionally baste the sauce over the stuffing. Well pleased with how it reheated, and steamed cooked the peppers. The lid captures the moisture and keeps its in the pot for steam cooking. Now I use this pot w/lid more for steaming foods & vegetables. Also, works well with soups. Cleans up in a breeze! EXTREMELY well pleased. Bought it in the black - how chic!