Abstract: The present invention relates to a cooking apparatus comprising a combination of a vessel having an upstanding wall defining an upper edge providing a supporting surface for a removable cover having a centrally located opening. The cover is adapted to fit over the upper edge of the vessel. The apparatus also has a number of holding elements located on the cover, each of the holding elements being adapted to hold at least one utensil for carrying food. The holding element supports the utensil in a substantially vertical position. Each of the holding elements further comprises a utensil receiving slot adapted to facilitate positioning of the utensil within the holding element. In one variant, the number of holding elements are permanently mounted on, and are an integral part of the cover. The holding element comprises a stabilizing structure, the stabilizing structure being adapted to cooperate with a corresponding stabilizing element of the utensil, and to keep the utensil in a substantially vertical position.