We honestly make this recipe every week because its so easy to make ahead of time and so versatile to enjoy with pasta, in a buddha bowl or loaded in a lettuce bun for the most epic burger!
I really enjoy making plant based meals however, when we do decide to enjoy a meat based meal I always buy local quality meat. Knowing that not only am I eating a healthy animal, I’m also supporting the ethical treatment of animals raised in local small scale farms.
I want to make a point of saying that this post is not made to make anyone feel bad about the food choices they make. Everyone is entitled to have their own views, so please know that I am simply sharing what works for me. I think it’s important to do your own research so that you feel empowered in the grocery store instead of confused and misled.
I thought it might be helpful to share a few key words that I keep in mind when I’m shopping for meat. I think it’s important to remember that it’s not always feasible to make the “perfect” purchase when it comes to meat because there are so many factors that comes into play such as budget or even geographically where you live. All we can do is the best that we can!
GRAIN-FED VS. GRASS-FED
Health Risks of conventional grain-fed beef:
- Hormones
- Antibiotics
- Stress hormones
- Preservatives
- GMO feed
- High saturated fat content
- Contamination
- Unsanitary conditions
- Prone to illness & infections
Key things to ask for when shopping for beef:
- Organic (ensures no added hormones or antibiotics)
- SPCA (ensures the animal was treated humanly)
- Grassfed
- Local, sustainable farms
- Free range
Where to shop?
- Local farmers markets
- Local butchers or farms
Victoria:
- Carnivore Meats
- Redbarn
- Terra Nossa Farms
Vancouver:
- Pasture to plate (Commercial Drive)
- Home on the range (Main & Broadway)
- Harkness & Co. (Broadway)

Grassfed Jalapeno Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/2 small onion finely chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (or sub GF oats)
- 1/4 cup jalapeno peppers finely chopped
- 1/4 cup goat cheese
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp tamari (or sub soy sauce)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- chilli flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350° and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl add ingredients and combine fully with your hands. With an ice cream scoop portion out mixture onto your baking tray.
- Bake in the oven for 18-20 or until centre is cooked.
If you try this recipe
Leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
Sarah xx
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