Meet Emily Gohison
Chef, food writer, and passionate advocate for simple, ingredient-driven cooking
WELCOME TO MY KITCHEN
I’m Emily, and I believe the best meals come from the heart—not complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. For over a decade, I’ve been on a mission to prove that exceptional food doesn’t require a culinary degree or an intimidating ingredient list.
Growing up in Portland with a mother who loved to cook and a father who appreciated good food, I learned early that meals are about connection. Every recipe here on PurelyDish has been tested, refined, and loved in my own kitchen—and I can’t wait to share these dishes with you.
My philosophy is simple: quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and recipes that respect your time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or picking up a pan for the first time, I’m here to guide you toward delicious, uncomplicated meals that bring joy to your table.
What Drives PurelyDish
Quality Ingredients
I source the freshest, highest-quality ingredients available. Every recipe is built around seasonal produce and honest, unfussy components.
Pure Simplicity
Complexity doesn’t equal flavor. I believe in letting quality ingredients speak for themselves through straightforward, uncomplicated techniques.
Accessible Cooking
Cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. Every recipe here is designed to be approachable for cooks of all skill levels, with clear guidance and honest timing.
My Journey to PurelyDish
How a passion for honest cooking became a mission to inspire others
2010
The Beginning
After years of working in hospitality and event planning in Portland, I realized my true passion was in the kitchen. I took the leap to pursue culinary arts, training under mentors who valued ingredient quality and elegant simplicity.
2015
Professional Growth
I spent five years working with renowned chefs at farm-to-table restaurants across the Pacific Northwest. This experience deepened my commitment to sourcing local, seasonal ingredients and understanding the stories behind every dish.
2020
Building PurelyDish
When the world went into lockdown, I found myself teaching friends and family how to cook with simple ingredients. This sparked the creation of PurelyDish—a space where I could share tested recipes and the philosophy that great cooking starts with respect for ingredients.
Today
Sharing with You
PurelyDish has grown into a community of home cooks who believe that the best meals don’t require fancy techniques or obscure ingredients. Every week, I share recipes that have been tested thoroughly and loved deeply—dishes designed to bring confidence and joy to your kitchen.
My Background & Expertise
Culinary Training
Formal culinary training from respected institutions combined with hands-on experience in professional kitchens. Specializing in seasonal cooking and ingredient-focused cuisine.
Farm-to-Table Expertise
Five years of dedicated work at Pacific Northwest farm-to-table restaurants. Deep knowledge of local sourcing, seasonal availability, and direct relationships with producers.
Food Writer & Author
Published food writing in major culinary publications and multiple cookbooks. Passionate about sharing not just recipes, but the stories and philosophy behind them.
Beyond the Kitchen
When I’m not developing recipes or writing, you’ll find me exploring Portland’s farmers markets, hiking in the Columbia River Gorge, or spending quality time with my partner and our rescue dog, Sage (yes, he’s named after an herb!).
I’m passionate about teaching others to cook with confidence, supporting local farmers and producers, and proving that the best meals don’t require complicated techniques or an endless ingredient list.
Quick Facts
HOME BASE
Portland, Oregon
FAVORITE INGREDIENT
Fresh lemon + good olive oil
COOKING PHILOSOPHY
Let quality ingredients shine
KITCHEN COMPANION
Sage the rescue dog 🐕
Ready to Cook?
Explore hundreds of tested recipes, discover new techniques, and join our community of home cooks who believe in pure, simple, delicious food.