The Cook & Gather Journal

Stories, tips, and recipes for a healthier, happier cooking life.

How to Clean Your Always Pan (Without Damaging the Coating)

Category: Care & Maintenance | Date: June 12, 2026

The Always Pan’s non-toxic ceramic coating (Thermakind®) is free of PTFE, PFOA, and PFAS, but it’s not indestructible. Follow these simple steps to keep it looking and performing like new.

What you’ll need:

  • Warm soapy water

  • Soft sponge or cloth

  • Baking soda (for stubborn stains)

Steps:

  1. After cooking, let the pan cool slightly.

  2. Wash with warm soapy water and a soft sponge.

  3. For stuck-on food, soak the pan with warm water for 10–15 minutes, then gently wipe.

  4. For tougher stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to the stain, let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse.

What to avoid:

  • Dishwasher (even if some versions are dishwasher-safe, hand washing is best)

  • Steel wool or abrasive scrubbers

  • High heat without food

  • Metal utensils (use wood, silicone, or nylon)

Storage tip: If you stack pans, place a paper towel or soft cloth between them to protect the coating.

One-Pan Wonder: Creamy Tomato & Spinach Pasta

Category: Recipes | Date: June 10, 2026

Dinner in 20 minutes, with only one pan to wash. This creamy, vegan-friendly pasta is perfect for busy weeknights. Made in your Always Pan or Perfect Pot.

Ingredients (serves 2–3):

  • 200g (7 oz) short pasta (penne or fusilli)

  • 1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 cup water (or vegetable broth)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup fresh spinach

  • ½ cup plant-based cream (or regular heavy cream)

  • Salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste

  • Optional: red pepper flakes, nutritional yeast or parmesan

Instructions:

  1. In your Always Pan, sauté garlic over medium heat for 1 minute (use a splash of water or oil).

  2. Add crushed tomatoes, water, and dried oregano. Stir.

  3. Add the dry pasta directly into the pan. Make sure the liquid mostly covers the pasta.

  4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

  5. Stir in spinach and cream. Cook for 1–2 minutes until spinach wilts.

  6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Serve warm.

Pro tip: Add a handful of fresh basil or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan before serving.

What Are PFAS? And Why You Should Avoid Them in Cookware

Category: Non-Toxic Kitchen | Date: June 5, 2026

You’ve probably heard the term “forever chemicals.” Here’s what they are, why they matter, and how to choose safer cookware – like Our Place.

What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals used to make products resistant to heat, oil, grease, and water. They are called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment or the human body.

Where are they found?

  • Non-stick cookware (traditional Teflon-type coatings)

  • Water-repellent clothing

  • Food packaging (pizza boxes, fast-food wrappers)

Why avoid them?
Studies have linked PFAS exposure to health issues like high cholesterol, thyroid disease, and reduced immune response. They can leach into food when cookware is scratched or overheated.

How to choose safer cookware:

  • Look for PTFE-free, PFOA-free, and PFAS-free labels.

  • Choose ceramic non-stick coatings (like Our Place’s Thermakind®).

  • Cast iron and stainless steel are also good options.

Our Place products are fully free of PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, and cadmium – so you can cook with peace of mind.

How to Season Your Perfect Pot (And Why It Helps)

Category: Care & Maintenance | Date: June 1, 2026

The Perfect Pot has a ceramic non-stick coating, so it doesn’t require traditional seasoning like cast iron. However, a light “maintenance season” can extend its life.

What you actually need to do:

  • Before first use, wash the pot with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly.

  • Occasionally (every 2–3 months), rub a few drops of neutral oil (avocado or grapeseed) on the interior surface with a paper towel, then wipe off the excess. This helps maintain the coating’s non-stick properties.

What not to do:

  • Do not heat the pot empty or on high heat for long periods.

  • Do not use aerosol cooking sprays – they leave a sticky residue that is hard to remove.

10 Minute Meals: 3 Ways to Use Your Always Pan

Category: How-To & Tips | Date: May 25, 2026

Short on time? Your Always Pan can do more than you think. Here are three super-fast meals.

1. Garlic Shrimp (or Tofu) Scampi
Sauté garlic and shrimp/tofu in a little oil for 3 minutes. Add a splash of lemon juice, fresh parsley, and serve over quick-cook rice or zoodles.

2. Veggie Fried Rice
Use leftover rice. Sauté frozen mixed vegetables and scrambled egg (or tofu) in the pan, add rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 4 minutes.

3. Quesadilla & Salsa
Warm two tortillas with cheese and black beans in the pan (medium heat, 2 minutes per side). Serve with jarred salsa and avocado.

All three meals leave you with only one pan to clean.

Our Place Color Guide: Which Always Pan Shade Is Right for You?

Category: Our Place Spotlight | Date: May 20, 2026

The Always Pan comes in over a dozen beautiful colors. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose.

Best-selling neutrals:

  • Steam (warm white) – matches any kitchen

  • Spice (terracotta) – adds a cozy, earthy feel

  • Char (slate grey) – modern and hides stains well

Bold & fun:

  • Blue Salt – calming and unique

  • Lavender – soft and cheerful

Limited editions (check availability):

  • Beige – minimalist elegance

  • Rosa – warm pink

Pro tip: Most people buy a neutral as their everyday pan and add a bold color as a second pan for serving or gifting.

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Address: 190 West Amado Road, Palm Springs, CA 92262