Stewing Hens / Stewing Chicken in South Bay / Santa Clara area?

[vprasad]

Back in the north east, stewing hens are relatively easy to find at supermarkets. I've had no such luck here in the south bay, checking the major names (safeway, pw market, lucky, trader joes, whole foods). I don't see them by the bagged poultry and when I ask, a lot of the guys behind the counters have no idea what I'm talking about.

So my questions--
does anyone know where I can find stewing hens for sale in this area?
what exactly does California do with its hens that are too old to lay eggs? Surely they must be sold somewhere in these parts.

[2sjfoodies]

you might try Race Street Fish and Poultry in San Jose. They may be able to special order.

[kemi5]

I agree with Melanie about seeing them at Asian markets such as Marina, 99 Ranch, Lions. If not fresh then check the frozen section. They do make the most flavorful stock. If all else fails roast the bones from a fryer for good stock. On another note, FYI I've seen roasters at Nob Hill Market in Mtn. View.

[jsaimd]

I've bought at Chavez supermarket before.

[Melanie Wong]

I buy them at Marina Foods in San Mateo. They're bagged and fresh. You might check the branch in Cupertino. They are Chinese supermarkets.

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Marina Food
10122 Bandley Dr, Cupertino, CA

[vprasad]

Thanks Melanie, I went to the Marina Foods in Cupertino and got a couple-- the chicken soup I made was the most flavorful that I've made in a long time.

[Melanie Wong]

Glad that worked out for you. With the weather we had earlier this week, good chicken soup was certainly in order!