We processed 11 birds yesterday and put them in vacuum seal bags. I have them in my fridge to sit and am wondering how many days they should rest before I freeze them? I decided not to brine them as I don't want the extra sodium. Would 2 days be long enough before freezing? Any insight from someone who has processed and frozen them and then eaten them would be appreciated! Thank you in advance!!
Now, I have NOT done this myself as of yet...but my understanding is that it is at least 24-48 hours of resting in the fridge before eating/freezing. Basically, I believe it is to allow the rigor mortis to wear off first.... I am sure someone will be along tho who is more knowledgeable than I in this respect
Thank you Lissa - this is what I am thinking as well but due to the huge investment in labor I for some reason need reassurance - lol
Hi mcf3kids I haven't been around ..lost all my broilers to coons, over 35 so far over the last 2 months and that kind of kept me off the forums for a bit. I just wanted to stop in and say I am SOOOO proud of you!!!! You did it! (I did let mine rest in the fridge for 2-3 days before I froze mine, but that is not based on any kind of expertise from me It was ..just because ) Anyway, great job, and again, so happy for you and proud of your journey!!!!! -Jessa
Ohhhh Jessa that sucks! I was wondering where you had been - did you figure out how they are getting at your birds? That must be so difficult after all the hard work you put in to raising them. I am so sad for you! You motivated me to embark on this and I am so glad that we did. It has been a lot of work but I know that there will be no waste and that we will appreciate each time we have one for dinner. I hope you can figure out how the coons are getting at your birds so you can raise another batch!
Easy. When the leg and thigh move easily and you can flex them like you can rearrange a store bought chicken. 24-48 hours. 24 is probably enough, but test by flexing the leg. When they are first done, you will see that the legs are stiff as boards.
