Cooking roosters

[Joeschooks]

I processed my largest marans rooster today at just a little over 12 weeks old. Not a huge amount of breast meat but he dressed out at a very respectable 2lb 10oz. At this age I assume he will be tender enough to oven roast, or is it advisable to cook in the crock pot?

 

[speedy2020]

It should be tender at this age. There is not enough meat. I don't process until 17-20 weeks.

 

[Lazy Farmer]

Brine...

 

[Joeschooks]

Brine... View attachment 1455603

Brine?

 

[Joeschooks]

It should be tender at this age. There is not enough meat. I don't process until 17-20 weeks.

There’s not loads but he was a very big boy for 12 weeks. He had to go because he was crowing constantly. My neighbours are very good but I don’t want to push it

 

[Lazy Farmer]

Brine?

 

[Joeschooks]

Ah wonderful. Thanks for the tip Connie

 

[Lazy Farmer]

Ah wonderful. Thanks for the tip Connie

Almost impossible to over cook him. Fresh birds also are better rested, just like pork and beef.

 

[Mosey2003]

Yep, rest him three days in the fridge, then cook at will.

 

[Joeschooks]

In case anyone is interested I oven roasted him in a dish with a little stock. He was very tender and extremely juicy. Much more meat than I expected too - 3 decent sized meals.