Bantam Cochins... Worth the trouble?

[Jmurcks]

I have way too many bantam cochin roosters and despite my best efforts to find them homes they are still here. My hubby wants to try eating them but being so small would it really be worth the effort? I've never tried my hand at this before and I am afraid since they are smaller I may have more trouble than it is worth. Anyone else using bantams as meat birds? Thanks!

 

[KenK]

I don't think it would be to much trouble. I've cleaned lots of wild doves and quail and thought it well worth the effort.

It's wasteful but a lot of people just take the breast off game birds, particularly the smallest ones like doves.

 

[CrzyChicLady]

I'm glad you asked this question I was wondering the same thing.

 

[dmiravalle]

I wouldn't bother plucking them, I would just skin them, then make sure you freeze them in airtight bags.

It has worked well for us since we NEVER eat the skin anyway.

 

[Jmurcks]

Would being so small be too much of a learning curve being the first ones we have ever done?
I think we may try and see... I could always say it is diet chicken (smaller portions)

 

[foxhomechickens]

There shouldnt be any problem as long as they are not too old

 

[Jmurcks]

How old is too old? These are anywhere from 4 months to one year...
Thanks!

 

[foxhomechickens]

Oh no real trouble just not as many cooking options. I was a little tired when i made that earlier post. Sorry.

 

[booker81]

I picked up a group of banty/silkie/who knows what mixes, and skinned them all out. Put them in a crockpot all together, and ended up making a bunch of broth which I froze in 2 cup portions, also shredded and bagged the meat for future use. Made a big pot of chicken noodle soup out of two of them, and it was delish!!

I found processing them was even easier than doing standard sized chickens, since they are smaller and easier to manipulate.

 

[Jmurcks]

That is great to hear! We will probably be doing that real soon!
Thanks everyone!