The Home Chef’s Guide to Grass Fed Beef

Since you’re a foodie like us, we know you’re met with lots of labels in your favorite grocery store. Bright and shiny words like “organic,” “vegan,” “keto,” and our favorite, “grass fed” pop up in every aisle, but what does “grass fed” really mean to you and your approach to cooking? Let’s take a bite …

Q: What does grass fed mean?

A: According to the FDA, grass fed means that the animal ate only grasses and forages for the length of its life. We take our Grass Fed Goodness mentality to heart, certifying that our beef is also grass finished. That means that cattle are never moved to a feedlot for “grain finishing” before processing, in addition to being grass fed for life.

Q: Does grass fed beef need to be prepared differently?

A: In short, no. Grass fed beef will hold up to typical beef preparation methods. But, great beef deserves great preparation techniques. Keep reading to learn more …

Q: How do I prepare top-notch beef?

A: There are a few golden rules when it comes to beef preparation. Here are a few to memorize, adapted from our friends at Beef Loving Texans.

1. Always thaw in the refrigerator
2. Use a separate cutting board (perhaps dedicate a red board to beef)
3. Pat beef dry before cooking
4. Turn with tongs (not a fork, that will puncture the meat and release juices)
5. Monitor heat and color closely
6. Salt after cooking
7. Slice against the grain

Need a quick guide to beef cooking temperatures? Check out this handy Instagram Story.

Now that you’ve got the basics under your apron, let’s dig into some ideas for preparing our grass fed cuts.

Recipe Idea #1: Strip Steaks with Herb Butter

Featuring Grass Run Farms New York Strip steaks

We love a good herb butter—it’s the perfect finishing touch to a nice steak. Try this simple recipe which features aromatic Herbes de Provence. This herb blend can be found at any grocery store, and includes lavender, which is a pleasant accompaniment to hearty grass fed steak.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tsp Lowry’s (or other steak seasoning)
• 1 stick salted butter, softened
• 4 tbsp Herbes de Provence
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 Grass Run Farms New York strip steaks

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine the above butter ingredients and refrigerate in cling wrap. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and place steaks in the pan. Cook to desired doneness and top finished steaks with the herb butter.

Recipe Idea #2: Wholesome Summer Burger

Featuring Grass Run Farms Ground Beef Burger Patties 

Need a satisfying, easy recipe to turn to for an impromptu backyard hangout? With our individually-frozen burger patties and some fresh veggies on hand, you’ll be set when the doorbell rings.

This recipe starts with a hearty wheat bun, then adds a juicy burger patty, sweet summer heirloom tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, and Alfalfa sprouts. Top it with your favorite dressing (we’re thinking avocado aioli … avocado + garlic + lemon + mayo + salt + pepper) and enjoy!

Get the full burger recipe here.

Recipe Idea #3: Instant Pot Grass Fed Beef Pappardelle Ragu

Featuring Grass Run Farms Beef Chuck Arm Roast

One of the biggest perks of using a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot is that you can create a tender beef roast that tastes like it took hours—when it really took an hour total. This pappardelle recipe from Food & Sachi is straightforward, easy, and will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Start by browning the roast in your Instant Pot before adding chopped veggies, garlic, dry red wine, beef broth, tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and herbs. After cooking the beef for about an hour, it’ll be fork-tender and easy to shred. Serve the beef and sauce over al dente pappardelle noodles for a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Get the full recipe here.

Recipe Idea #4: Easy-Peasy Slow Cooker Beef Roast

Featuring Grass Run Farms Beef Chuck Arm Roast

This recipe can be as easy or involved as your schedule allows. If you have time on your hands or company to impress, you could tenderize your roast, sear it dark brown on all sides in a ripping hot pan with butter, olive oil, and garlic, and finish it in the oven or crock pot. Otherwise, if you’re pressed for prep time, simply throw all the ingredients in a crock pot for eight hours or more!

INGREDIENTS

• Grass Run Farms Beef Chuck Arm Roast
• ¾ liter Burgundy wine
• 1 thinly sliced onion
• 1 beef or vegetable bullion
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups water

Want more recipe ideas? Keep tabs on our growing collection of recipes and cooking tips on our blog and learn more about our grass fed cuts. Stay connected with us on social for more foodie-friendly ideas and tips—we’re on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!