butchering quail

[Lazys]

What is the desired butchering weight/age for Japanese Quail?

 

[dc3085]

Top of the growth curve is 8 weeks go 10-12 if you want them to have more fat on the carcass

 

[cmobley]

I do mine at 8 weeks. Ive tried 10 and 12 theres no difference at all in 8 10 or 12 other than like dc said a little fat and wasted feed.

 

[cottontail farm]

Is there a reason, cooking/flavor wise, to wait for them to gain that fat layer?

 

[dc3085]

Hold a marinade better and some people prefer that fat. If youre deep frying them less fat is better.

 

[jeepster]

Hold a marinade better and some people prefer that fat. If youre deep frying them less fat is better.

Deep Fried? Please explain your technique and any recipes because that sounds awesome!

 

[cmobley]

I marinate in italian dressing roll in flour deep fry in crisco.

 

[jeepster]

I marinate in italian dressing roll in flour deep fry in crisco.

That sounds delicious. I have marinated in Italian dressing and baked them before but I think I will have to try your way.

Thanks

 

[dc3085]

When I deep fry them I do it just like a turkey, skin on, no seasoning in peanut oil. Do not process the birds the way I show in the video if you want to deep fry them, you will have to pluck them instead to retain the skin.

 

[jeepster]

I was thinking an Italian dressing marinade then breaded and baked would make a nice dish.