epic processing failure

[dace316]

LOL....I decided I would process 3 of my almost 8 week old meaties. I got my kitchen ready, my kill station ready in the garage, picked out my 3 biggest roosters and set to work......I've only culled a small meatie a few weeks ago, and that worked well, so I thought today would go smoothly too.

First, my milk jug kill cone--way too small for this monster chicken. It did the job, but I'm going to have to find something bigger.

Scalding, plucking, gut removal--all went well. I didn't like the neck opening so I was working on that and my knife slipped.....5 stitches later....the other 2 that I had set aside will get to enjoy their weekend. LOL

I put the bird on ice while at the doctor. I just finished cleaning my kitchen back up and he's soaking in some salt water before I bag him. He better taste DELICIOUS!!!

I'm not defeated...I will try it again on Monday.

 

[Clay Mudd]

Your last sentence tell me you'll do fine.


edited to add: It's not an epic failure unless you ruin the meat or suffer permanent injury. I'd call what what you went through "training expense."

 

[akjack]

dace316,
I use the cheap office plastic garbage cans from Walmart for killing cones. I believe they are the 2 gallon size and sell for around $3.00 up here in Alaska. They are certainly cheaper in the lower 48. I cut a small hole ~2" in the bottom for the head. I have a board with four of these screwed on and the "chicken processing center" works fairly well.
I agree with Clay Mudd, you'll do just fine.

 

[Beekissed]

Try 2 gal. bleach jugs...milk jugs are too flimsy and short, as you have found out. Four stars for a valiant effort and being wounded in the line of duty!

 

[akashia26]

don't feel bad. my husband says when he cleans anything, fish, deer, chickens, ect. he has to count his fingers to make sure they are all there.

for the soak. if you are going to cook it right then, sweet milk or sweetened milk works really well and gives a unique flavor.

 

[Life is Good!]

Ouch! Depending on where the cut is, sounds like those 2 roosters may have a few extra days.
I have successfully used disposable nylon gloves to cover a wound when needing to continue working during healing. It's a bit harder, as your grip is less - but it does keep the wound clean. Personally, I purchased kitchen gloves a size smaller than usual and only wore the one needed to cover the wound. It was tight enough to stay on (although VERY hot), and they had little nubbies to help grip.
Enjoy your meal!