What specific feature distinguishes the skin of a heritage Plymouth Rock raised for five months compared to a young Cornish Cross?
Answer
The heritage bird has darker, more mature skin.
The maturation process inherent in heritage breeds results in physical differences compared to rapidly grown commercial chickens. A Cornish Cross, processed young, typically displays very pale and thin skin. In contrast, a heritage breed like the Plymouth Rock, which has been allowed to mature for five months, develops skin that is darker and exhibits a richer, more mature appearance. This pigmentation and texture align with the flavor profile preferred by those who favor older birds raised using robust 19th-century cooking methods.

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