BRESSE CHICKEN
We refer to our birds as Canadian Gauloise or Canadian Bresse. Quite simply put, the king of French gastronomy. Unbeknownst to this little chick born with yellow legs and a jacket of soft fuzzy yellow fur, his legs will turn a slate grey-blue, his feathers white, and his crown the colour of red signifying power, passion, and desire. These birds are fast gaining popularity in North America. It is available from a few breeders that can offer healthy quality stock.
The Bresse has been established through 500 years of French tradition. Our birds are from American lines originally imported from Europe. To our knowledge, we are the only farm in BC that has this breed in quantity. It's eerily similar to our cherished blue foot created in the Fraser Valley.
Our goal is to change the ideology of the industrialized chicken "farms" that raise broilers in closed barns or caged in tight quarters with no chance for a normal life. A good table bird will properly develop over a longer life with sometimes nutty undertones and other intense flavours sure to please the palate. Or you can opt for the other birds developed over a short six week period with a taste and texture somewhat reminiscent of cardboard (something we feel reflects the quality of the bird’s short life). It can all be avoided if you get to know your farmer. You should be able to taste, touch, and feel a connection when eating properly grown food. We are back to the basics that were intended by the grand designer. We are just simple people, although a bit nutty for these crazy birds. I am thankful that my wife is a chickenabler that shares my views and preservation efforts.
If you are interested in starting a small flock, please let us know. We are looking for other farms to collaborate with this movement. Given the nature and desire for this bird for the table, the investment is much more than a common hatchery bird. It is a commitment to the old tradition requiring a large tract of land and constant care. We are offering limited number of chicks and eggs. Sign up now!
The Bresse has been established through 500 years of French tradition. Our birds are from American lines originally imported from Europe. To our knowledge, we are the only farm in BC that has this breed in quantity. It's eerily similar to our cherished blue foot created in the Fraser Valley.
Our goal is to change the ideology of the industrialized chicken "farms" that raise broilers in closed barns or caged in tight quarters with no chance for a normal life. A good table bird will properly develop over a longer life with sometimes nutty undertones and other intense flavours sure to please the palate. Or you can opt for the other birds developed over a short six week period with a taste and texture somewhat reminiscent of cardboard (something we feel reflects the quality of the bird’s short life). It can all be avoided if you get to know your farmer. You should be able to taste, touch, and feel a connection when eating properly grown food. We are back to the basics that were intended by the grand designer. We are just simple people, although a bit nutty for these crazy birds. I am thankful that my wife is a chickenabler that shares my views and preservation efforts.
If you are interested in starting a small flock, please let us know. We are looking for other farms to collaborate with this movement. Given the nature and desire for this bird for the table, the investment is much more than a common hatchery bird. It is a commitment to the old tradition requiring a large tract of land and constant care. We are offering limited number of chicks and eggs. Sign up now!
For Bresse chicks or chicken for sale, please visit our Price List page.
You can also check our Available Now for special offers.
*This page was first published in Spring 2013. Photographs and write ups are by the farmer, Matthew Nelson. They are the property of the Nelson family.
You can also check our Available Now for special offers.
*This page was first published in Spring 2013. Photographs and write ups are by the farmer, Matthew Nelson. They are the property of the Nelson family.
In the News:
Our Canadian Bresse featured in an article by Mark Schatzker in the Globe and Mail.
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