first time processing

[irf1983]

If i'm doing a large batch, do I need to keep those that i've bled cool until i scald them? Also, is it better to let a bird rest before you eat it, or is it ok to butcher and eat them the same day? Sorry, I know they are dumb questions.

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

No need to keep cool, they,ll be alright for a couple of hours. I let mine sit in the fridge for 3 days to break down muscle fiber & it's more tender.

 

[Salt and Light]

Kill and eat away. I really don't think chickens need to rest like red meat does. But, that's just me. We generally do let ours sit overnight in the fridge before freezing, but I don't think it's a necessity.

 

[Kindred]

Quote:
If you are going to be cooking it up really fresh then go ahead.

When something dies a chemical change occurs in the muscles. This change causes stiffnes also known as Rigor Mortis. The cooling process is used to break down this chemical change and to return the muscles to a pliable nature.

In general, if freezing them cool them for a couple of days, if eating fresh then process and throw in the fridge for dinner that night.