Susan, you forgot to tell him to turn the oven on -- 350-400F depending on the oven.

I know a lot of people wash the chicken, but it's really not a good idea. It's not necessary, as any germs on the skin will be killed when you cook it for two hours. It's dangerous because it's hard to avoid splashing the water, and getting raw chicken germs all over the sink area.

2 hours sounds long for a 4-lb chicken. I view it as a high-risk meat; maybe you gave a long time for safety. I think it's worth getting a thermometer and using it to ensure it's cooked through. That way you can avoid over-cooking.

Thanks Chickenlittle!

"2 hours sounds long for a 4-lb chicken. I view it as a high-risk meat; maybe you gave a long time for safety."

It may depend on what temperature you're using. Two hours at 350F is just perfect for a 4# chicken, a little more time is usually required for one that is a bit larger.

I used to have a housemate who cooked everything at high temps, where 2 hours would set off the smoke alarms.

I wash the chickens inside and out because of the (lack of) quality of USDA slaughterhouses/packing plants. I never stuff birds for the same reason.

Sue

Here is a simple recipe for Treacle Sponge Pudding, which is very easy to follow. You can buy them in a can but making the pudding from the basic ingredients saves money and tastes better. Serve with custard. If you can make Treacle Sponge pudding then making Spotted Dick (again available in a can, which makes for excellent canned ration food) is easier to make.

Here is a spreadsheet for a 10 week ration for 1 person @ 2200Kcal per day for around £10 or $15 per week available from the local supermarkets for a basic food pantry. Most items will have a shelf life greater than 12 months. (Many of the items are available for less but quality has not really been diminished)



What is missing is of course are fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh meat and fish, fresh diary and eggs (I cannot easily find a source for dried egg in the UK). Spices and flavorings are also not included. This would increase the price per week considerably but it would be possible to survive on these basics for around 10 weeks for a total of around $150 per person.