Don’t put the grill away just yet. It’s all about the experience. Enjoy!
Seasoned grass-fed steaks over a wood-fired grill in Northern Michigan at The North Coast Ranch.
While I am not passionate about backyard grilling, I do enjoy it...and I bet you do too. As we are nearing the end of the traditional “grilling season” in Northern climates, there’s no need to stop grilling just because football season has started, the kids are back in school, etc. In fact, temps have cooled slightly…and the days and nights are 100% perfection. In any season, grilling elevates the flavor of meat and creates a unique connection with the food that indoor cooking often lacks. Plus, the experience of gathering with family and friends, enjoying a cold drink, and engaging in lively conversation while watching over the grill, is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re a grilling pro or just starting out, here are some essential tips to help make your next barbecue a hit.
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Creating great-tasting beef requires more than just grass.I made burgers over the weekend with the ground beef, and they were absolutely delicious. I can't wait to try the brisket on the smoker!”
- Will S., Hamilton, Michigan
Gotta say, this burger is quite good. Thanks for the dinner. As usual, it is great to see you guys.
– Steve S, Northville, Michigan
a reminder of the beauty in simple Pleasures
Life Is Too Short For Mediocre Meat
Tasteless cuts pumped full of who-knows-what, from cows that live a miserable existence. It's a grim picture and it's not doing us, our planet or those poor cows any favors.
Why settle for that mystery meat? Trying to Plan Ahead for Winter Grazing
A Triple Thank You Happy Independence Day !!!
Happy Independence Day!
Sending warm wishes your way for this special day. Have any exciting plans lined up? On the ranch, we’re planning on a few visits with friends and family, some fireworks and hoping for normal weather conditions and as always…everyone staying safe and injury free. Unpacking the American Palate
In the vast landscape of American cuisine, there's an intriguing phenomenon that often raises eyebrows: The apparent preference for processed, frozen and packaged foods over fresh, farm-to-table alternatives. It's easy to dismiss this as a mere consequence of a fast-paced lifestyle, but it goes deeper than that. Let’s explore a little.
Convenience in a Fast-Paced World
Balancing demanding work schedules, family obligations and social commitments leaves little time for elaborate meal preparation. The ease of opening a frozen dinner or microwaving a pre-packaged meal appeals to those seeking efficiency in their daily routines...and some of those pre-packaged meals are fairly good...I am thinking the Hello Fresh, Purple Carrot, Daily Harvest, etc.
Economic Considerations
Processed foods are often more affordable than fresh produce, making them an attractive option for individuals or families on a tight budget. Longer shelf life of processed foods contributes to economic appeal, minimizing food waste and offering a practical solution.
Technological Advances in Food Preservation
Advances in food preservation techniques enable the creation of products with extended shelf periods without compromising taste or nutritional value. Consumers can enjoy a diverse array of foods throughout the year, regardless of seasonal variations.
Evolving Dynamics of American Households
Increasing dual-income families and single-person households drive the demand for quick and easy meal solutions. Processed foods provide a hassle-free alternative, requiring minimal preparation and catering to diverse taste preferences.
Psychological Comfort and Familiarity
Familiarity and comfort associated with certain processed foods contribute to their popularity. Nostalgia and emotional attachment to these foods from childhood create a psychological preference, especially in times of stress or exhaustion.
While the convenience, affordability and nostalgia associated with processed foods hold sway, there's a growing awareness of the importance of a balanced diet. Many are exploring ways to incorporate fresh, farm-to-table options into their lives as discussions surrounding health and sustainability gain prominence.
The preference for processed, frozen and packaged foods among some Americans is a multifaceted phenomenon. Driven by the demands of a fast-paced lifestyle, economic considerations, technological advancements and psychological factors, it represents a complex interplay of forces shaping the culinary landscape. As discussions surrounding health and sustainability gain prominence, it will be interesting to observe how the American palate continues to evolve in the years to come. Do you have any thoughts on the subject? A Short Journey For Improved Health For Your Family Child Playing in the Park
As a parent, there are few responsibilities that weigh as heavily on your heart as ensuring the health and well-being of your children, right?
While not quite as alarming as the time you couldn’t find them at the park, thinking “Holy smokes...where is little Billy or Suzie!” ... only to be super relieved to see they were momentarily hidden behind a trash can...or they decided to go sit in the car! (Yes, both happened to me). Good nutrition is more a longer-term, learned lifestyle and not as heart-pumping and fearful as a lost child! Today, convenience often trumps quality, and many people find themselves troubled by the nutritional content, or lack thereof (i.e. crap!) in the typical American diet. The Power of a Whole Food Diet in Managing Chronic Diseases Food As Medicine
In a world where processed and convenience foods dominate the American diet, the concept of using food as medicine is gaining traction.
Research increasingly supports the idea that a whole food diet can play a crucial role in managing chronic diseases, offering a natural and sustainable approach to health.
Here are 9 ways that whole-foods can help manage chronic illness:
Embracing Freshness and The Local Food Landscape The Rise of Farm-To-Table
In recent years, the farm-to-table movement has experienced a surge in popularity, capturing the hearts and palates of consumers around the world.
This trend has become more than just a buzzword; it's a lifestyle choice driven by a collective desire for fresh, locally sourced food. The basic definition of "Farm-to-Table" is that meals should be based on ingredients produced near where we live...eating locally grown food. Let's explore the reasons behind the growing appeal of the farm-to-table movement and how it reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences towards sustainable, healthy and environmentally conscious choices. The Case For Eating Local Farm-To-Table Prioritize Taking Care of Yourself
When it comes to nourishing you and your family, there's a compelling case for embracing local and seasonal food. Here are four great reasons to prioritize farm fresh food:
Food Miles
Variety: Rediscovering Nature's Bounty
Nutrition: Optimize Your Health with Local Produce
Flavor: Rediscovering True Taste
The best food for your body is often grown near where you live. Let your nourishment reflect the richness of your local community. To your well-being, Jim There is a very clear connection between the food that I get here and how much better I feel. When I make healthy choices, I just feel better.
- Lisa, Rochester, MI
New Herd Member - #2401 Herd Member #2401. Welcome! While not ideal timing, there was a surprise in the pasture this afternoon. Ideally, calves are born in warm weather and mama's have all the fresh grass to help keep them and the baby healthy. So far, so good! If we named our cattle, "Valentine" seems appropriate, no? Rotational Grazing is a Cornerstone of Regenerative Ranching
Short video rotating the cows from one area of pasture to another. Why?
Rotating them keeps them on fresh pasture, away from where they previously were. You see, cattle don't have bathrooms like humans, so where they stand becomes their bathroom. If they stand in the same place long enough, it becomes their bathroom. It's not healthy...so we move 'em! This is how we make 100% grass-fed beef for people that prioritize farm fresh food. Watch the video by clicking the "Watch Video" button below. (I needed to do this to keep it from auto-playing as soon as you go to the blog.) A Busy Mom’s Short Guide to Easier Buying
In a world filled with choices and busy schedules, making the shift towards buying locally grown food might seem like a challenge.
However, prioritizing farm fresh food brings a host of advantages to your health and the environment. You already knew that... Here are four simple ways you can make buying local food part of your routine: 1. Discover the Joy of Farmers' Markets and Local Vendors Dive into the vibrant world of farmers' markets. These lively markets are treasure troves of fresh, seasonal produce and unique artisanal products, like 100% grass-fed beef. By making these markets a regular part of your routine, you'll not only gain direct access to high-quality local goods but also establish personal connections with the farmers. This turns your local food shopping into an enjoyable and communal experience. It's a two-fer. Two for one. 
Bale Grazing. How We Keep Our Cattle Warm in Winter. Cattle Bale Grazing during Winter in Northern Michigan
This weekend and next week the temperatures at night are expected to reach single digits, with wind chills making it feel even colder. After a warm December, it appears that winter has finally settled in here at The North Coast Ranch. We're often asked, "How do you keep your cattle warm in the winter?" Let me tell ya... -- READ MORE -- The View From a Michigan Cattle Ranch We've been fielding a lot of questions about mRNA vaccinations and our grass-fed beef.
First, great to see people are taking an interest in how their food is produced. However, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around, so let’s set the record straight on mRNA vaccinations from the perspective of this Northern Michigan Grass-Fed Beef Rancher. -- READ MORE -- A Comprehensive Guide to the Most Common Cuts of Beef Grass-Fed Beef Cuts
In a world of sizzling steaks and flavorful cuts, the realm of beef presents an enticing array of choices. From the tender marbling of ribeye to the robust richness of brisket, each cut tells a story on its own. The hierarchy of grades, the art of proper freezing and the science behind the perfect stew—all facets of a culinary adventure.
Whether it's the premium tenderness of filet mignon or the budget-friendly versatility of round cuts, beef offers a spectrum of tastes and textures to savor. So, embark on this flavorful journey, armed with insights into chuck roasts, porterhouses and hanger steaks—a comprehensive guide to navigate the diverse world of beef cuts awaits your culinary explorations! This guide breaks down the most common cuts of beef, providing insights into their characteristics, best cooking methods and flavors.
IS BUYING A WHOLE OR HALF COW WORTH IT?
This short guidebook will spell out some helpful tips when buying grass-fed beef in bulk. While not for everyone, most of our customers would never go back to their old ways of buying their beef. HARNESSING NATURE'S BALANCE  Grasslands sequester carbon from the air. Cattle ranches are an integral part of agriculture, but they are often associated with concerns about emissions. However, there's an intriguing aspect to this story – carbon sequestration, a natural process with potential benefits for our environment.
Let's delve into the helpful results that natural cattle ranching can and have on the environment. Please Note: We are not discussing feed lots here! TRENDY, BUT STILL WORTHWHILE Bone broth, once a kitchen staple in traditional cultures, has made a surprising comeback in the modern culinary world, often hailed as a trendy superfood. In the days of our ancestors, simmering pots of broth were a common sight, serving both as a versatile culinary base and a preservation method before the era of refrigeration. Let's explore why this ancient practice is regaining popularity and why you should consider adding bone broth to your diet.
-- READ MORE -- The Misleading Labeling of Grass-Fed Beef The labeling of grass-fed beef is concern for many producers and consumers in the United States. A significant portion of the beef labeled as "Product of U.S.A." is imported from overseas. This misrepresentation is allowed due to a current labeling policy by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The need for clear, common-sense food labeling is evident to safeguard consumer interests and provide support to local grass-fed and grass-finished beef producers. (Yes, this might be a little self-serving. It’s also a bunch of B.S. too.)
-- READ MORE -- THE WORLD'S BEST BEEF?
Today we will attempt to summarize the beef qualities of Dexter cattle. We could write many words describing the other fine attributes that make Dexter cattle a super breed, but we will save that for another day. Briefly, aside from great beef, Dexter cattle are hardy, more efficient at converting a variety of grass/forage to beef, produce more pounds per acre than most any other breed, are great mothers and have a calm disposition. Now, on to the meat itself… -- READ MORE -- UNLOCKING SOME GRASS-FED BEEF MAGIC WITH WINE
But with so many varieties of red wine available and many ways to prepare beef, answering which wine to serve with what entrée becomes trickier. There are some basic rules (more about rules later) to follow when pairing wine with beef, but there are few other ways to discover what type of wine to serve with your next meal. Have fun. Don’t stress. Enjoy and “Play Your Own Game”!
-- READ MORE --  Seems the phrase "Regenerative Farming" is getting tossed around a lot in some agricultural circles and messaging to consumers and their food choices. This post will attempt to answer the question, "What is Regenerative Farming?". As you might imagine from the post title and the image, it's all about the soil. So, let's answer the question from The North Coast Ranch point of view.
-- READ MORE --
WHAT TEMPERATIRE SHOULD I COOK MY GRASS-FED BEEF?
The same as any other type of beef: Cook your beef to the correct internal temperature: Rare = 135-139° Medium Rare = 140-143°F Medium = 144-150° Medium Well = 150-160° (if you must) Well = 160° + (if you must) Please note: Grass-fed beef will retain its pink color at higher temperatures. -- READ MORE -- |
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