Local, healthy beef
![Debby’s Beef and Basil-Tomato Soup](https://d2fxn1d7fsdeeo.cloudfront.net/kentuckyliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/07005421/KY_LIVING_SFrits-by-John-Rott_BeefChili_Horiz-WEB-1.jpg)
Grass-fed cattle make for a healthier meal
Grass-fed beef doesn’t always grab the interest of the average consumer, but those who swear by its healthful qualities and good taste are devoted to it.
![Toby and Debby Dulworth](https://d2fxn1d7fsdeeo.cloudfront.net/kentuckyliving.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/07005503/Toby-Debby-by-Alex-Mih-WEB.jpg)
Debby and Toby Dulworth, who run Dogwood Farm in LaCenter, in far western Kentucky, have grass-finished their Hereford herd for decades. The cattle are rotated daily through a series of fenced paddocks, grazing down one area before moving to the next, which allows the forage to grow back and the cattle to get the most nutritious feed.
Grass-finished beef is higher in good fats, and lower in fat overall, than grain-fed beef. Even the bones are restorative, says Debby, who suffers from a chronic digestive disorder. “Bone broth fixes me,” she says.
Beef is only available locally, they do not ship, from Dogwood Farm by the whole or half by contacting dogwood@brtc.net. Their ground beef is available at Heath Health, 3530 Lone Oak Rd., Paducah, KY 42003, (270) 534-4977.
Cooking Tips:
• The secret to healthful bone broth, says Debby, is letting the bones rest in the water with a little bit of vinegar. Add just enough water to cover the bones, and add ¼ C Bragg’s organic apple cider vinegar. A typical recipe for bone broth is on epicurious.
• To make Beef-and-Basil Tomato Soup in a Florentine style, add a cup or two of fresh chopped spinach along with the tomato puree or juice.
• You can serve this Beef-and- Basil Tomato Soup as a topping over rice or pasta, if you wish.
Click on the links below to view the recipes featured in this month’s Chef’s Choice: