In this review, we compare the Our Place Always Pan Pro with the Hex Clad pan, focusing on features, cooking performance, and usability. The Always Pan Pro boasts a unique titanium and stainless steel construction, while Hex Clad has been a reliable choice for years. We explore seasoning, cooking tests, and design elements to determine if the new pan is worth the investment.
In the world of cookware, the battle of the pans is a hot topic. Today, we dive into a comparison between the Our Place Always Pan Pro and the Hex Clad, a pan that has been a favorite for many home cooks for nearly a decade. This review will cover the features, cooking performance, and usability of both pans to help you decide which one is right for you.
The Our Place Always Pan Pro is marketed as a revolutionary cooking tool, featuring a stainless steel exterior and aluminum core with a nonstick technology that claims to be free from harmful chemicals like PFAs, PTFE, and PFOA. Its titanium interior is said to be 300% harder than stainless steel, with a heat resistance of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
On the other hand, the Hex Clad pan has been a staple in kitchens for years, known for its unique combination of stainless steel and a nonstick surface that allows for easy food release. Having used Hex Clad for nine years, I can attest to its reliability and performance.
Seasoning the Pans
One of the first steps in using these pans is seasoning. Many users of Hex Clad often complain about eggs sticking, which can be attributed to improper seasoning. Unlike typical nonstick pans, Hex Clad requires a seasoning process similar to cast iron. This involves applying oil and heating the pan to create a nonstick surface.
For the Always Pan Pro, seasoning is also essential. After seasoning both pans, we proceeded to conduct cooking tests to evaluate their performance with various foods, including vegetables and proteins.
Cooking Performance
Heat Retention and Distribution
During the cooking demonstration, it was noted that the Always Pan Pro took longer to cool down compared to Hex Clad, indicating superior heat retention. This feature can be beneficial for maintaining consistent cooking temperatures.
Nonstick Capabilities
The nonstick performance of both pans was tested, particularly with eggs, which are often a challenge for many cookware. The Always Pan Pro required slightly more oil than Hex Clad, likely due to its deeper grooves that need to be filled for optimal food release. While Hex Clad performed well with minimal oil, the Always Pan Pro’s titanium and steel construction offers a chemical-free alternative that many health-conscious cooks may prefer.
Design Features
Integrated Spoon and Lid
One notable design feature of the Always Pan Pro is its integrated wooden spoon, which fits into a groove on the lid. However, this feature has been met with skepticism. Many cooks may find it impractical to use while cooking, as it requires careful alignment to avoid sticking.
Aesthetic Considerations
The Always Pan Pro’s shiny exterior is prone to fingerprints, which can detract from its appearance. A matte finish might have been a more practical choice, as it would be less likely to show smudges. The lid design also raises concerns about safety, as steam can escape from a gap, potentially causing burns if not handled carefully.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Both pans are designed for easy cleaning, but the Always Pan Pro’s lack of a nonstick coating means that it requires more oil during cooking to prevent sticking. Users are advised to follow specific cleaning instructions, including re-seasoning after washing, to maintain the pan’s performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Our Place Always Pan Pro and Hex Clad have their strengths and weaknesses. The Always Pan Pro offers a modern, chemical-free cooking experience with impressive heat retention, while Hex Clad remains a reliable choice for those who prioritize ease of use and proven nonstick capabilities.
As we continue to explore the performance of these pans in future videos, it will be interesting to see how they hold up under various cooking conditions. For now, both pans have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on your cooking style and preferences. Stay tuned for more detailed comparisons and cooking tests in upcoming episodes!
