You pay for the service. The app is free, but I don't really find it useful for a phone; the service works seamlessly with openvpn or wireguard on any proper server.
It's a waste of disk space, fucks up iptables, doesn't isolate UID/GID, doesn't reap orphaned processes, and just overall adds another layer complexity to what could just be a simple package installation.
Not sure what you're doing to cause the meat to disintegrate, but I've never had an issue with the texture. I do try to get a nice deep browning on each side of the flat of ground meat before turning, and cook the onions with.
I've found that ground turkey makes a great substitute for ground beef in dishes like chili where the meat isn't the main flavor (also see meatballs and meatloaf). It's cheaper, lower in cholesterol, and a little more sustainable to boot.