Is sous vide worth it for home cooking?

Yes — particularly for proteins. A $15 chuck roast cooked sous vide for 24 hours tastes like prime rib. Chicken breast comes out perfectly juicy every time. Steaks hit the exact doneness you want. The consistency alone justifies the investment.

Do I need a special container?

No — any large pot works. A 12-quart stockpot handles most home cooking. Dedicated sous vide containers with lids reduce evaporation on long cooks but are not required to start.

Best Sous Vide Cookers Under $100 2026