Alli Heiman

IN THE KITCHEN WITH ALLI HEIMAN

Tell us about yourself:

I’m a gluten free creator who’s been living with celiac disease for over 12 years now. It’s been such a journey, but I’ve really grown to love finding ways to make food fun and feel-good, even without the gluten. One of the most rewarding parts has been helping others who are also navigating this lifestyle. When I’m not playing around in the kitchen, I’m soaking up time with my husband (we’re college sweethearts!) and our almost 5-year-old daughter. You’ll usually find me curled up with a good book or getting a workout in at kickboxing, which has become one of my favorite ways to reset and recharge.

How did you get involved in cooking?

I’ve always loved cooking. I grew up watching hours of Food Network and feeling so inspired by the chefs and their creativity. In college, I was cooking for myself and roommates, and when I got diagnosed with celiac, it really clicked that the best way I could care for myself was to take control of my food. Cooking became both a safe space and a creative outlet, which helped me feel confident and grounded in this new lifestyle.

Describe your cooking style:

Simple and approachable is everything to me. I focus on quality ingredients and meals that come together in under an hour, or just need a little prep before they’re ready to cook. Life gets busy, so I love recipes that work with real schedules and real kitchens. Most of what I share is what we’re actually eating at home, because I know someone out there is just looking for that next spark of inspiration. I always cook with the mindset that food doesn’t need to be complicated to be delicious.

How did you learn about grass-fed meats?

Social media has been a huge resource. I’ve learned so much from following others in the gluten free and wellness space. Early on in my journey, I started noticing how many people weren’t just focused on food that fit their dietary needs, but also on the quality of the ingredients. We’ve always loved visiting farmers markets, so chatting with local farmers and hearing their stories really opened my eyes, giving me a new appreciation for the work they do. Supporting small farms near us, and now being able to support others like USWM that ship nationwide, has been such a great way to connect with our food on a deeper level.

What is your favorite recipe featuring grass-fed meat?

Tacos, hands down. We’re a big taco family, and using grass-fed ground beef really makes a difference. It’s more flavorful and tender, and it shines with something as simple as seasoning and a good simmer. I just brown the beef, add our favorite taco spices and a splash of liquid, and let the magic happen. Load it up in your go-to taco shells with whatever toppings you love, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser every time.

You’re stranded on a desert island; luckily, you’re stranded with your top 5 ingredients and one must-have kitchen tool:

1. Coffee (first, always, forever)
2. White rice
3. Himalayan salt
4. Grass-fed ground beef
5. Grass-fed butter
Can I sneak in one more? Water. I carry around my emotional support water bottle all day long, so I’m definitely not leaving that behind. As for a kitchen tool, I’d say a spatula. Maybe that sounds basic, but I use mine constantly, and it’s such a handy tool for pretty much everything.

Best cooking secret/tip/piece of advice you’ve learned:

Use recipes as inspiration, not as rules. I always say measure with your heart, especially when it comes to seasonings and flavors you already love. Don’t be afraid to make it your own. Some of the best meals come from just trusting your instincts in the kitchen.

What’s your favorite quote/song for culinary inspiration (if any)?

Spotify always comes through with the vibes. I usually pop on my “Cooking Mix”. It’s filled with some of my favorite artists and always sets the perfect vibe when I’m in the kitchen.

Anything else you want to share?

It’s amazing to see how far the gluten free world has come in the last decade. If you’re just getting started or looking for support, I created an online course called Settling into Celiac to help guide you through it all. From preparing your home and pantry to understanding labels and learning how to advocate for yourself, it’s everything I wish I had when I was first diagnosed. You can learn more here: https://www.allisappetite.com/settling-into-celiac

Your social media links (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Youtube):

Instagram: https://instagram.com/allisappetite
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@allisappetite_
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@allisappetite
FoodSocial: https://foodsocial.io/user/allisappetite/recipes/
Blog: https://www.allisappetite.com/settling-into-celiac

Enter To Win!

Enter to Win our May 2025 Wholesome Food Giveaway for a chance to win $175 bundle of delicious & nutritious grass-fed and pastured meats. Contest runs from May 1 – May 14, 2025.