Cornish Game Hens With Orange Sauce Recipe
Description:
Cornish game hens with orange sauce is an elegant yet straightforward recipe, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of tender Cornish game hens with a citrusy orange sauce is a delightful culinary experience that will impress your guests. This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides ample time for the cook to socialize and enjoy the company of their guests while preparing the meal. Serve it alongside buttered broccoli or asparagus and sautéed onions and red peppers for a visually stunning and well-balanced meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cornish game hens | 4 |
| Oranges | 4 |
| Salt | As needed |
| Pepper | As needed |
| Parsley | As needed |
| Cornstarch | As needed |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 338.8
- Fat Content: 8.1g
- Saturated Fat Content: 2g
- Cholesterol Content: 217.5mg
- Sodium Content: 162.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 15.4g
- Fiber Content: 3.1g
- Sugar Content: 12.2g
- Protein Content: 49.1g
Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 500°F (260°C).
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Prepare Cornish Game Hens: In a small bowl, mix salt and pepper. Rub this mixture liberally onto the skin of the Cornish game hens.
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Roast Hens: Place the prepared hens on a cookie sheet, breast side up, and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
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Add Water: After 15 minutes, remove the hens from the oven and carefully turn them breast side down. Pour 1 1/2 cups of water over the hens.
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Reduce Oven Temperature: Lower the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and continue to cook the hens for another 30 minutes.
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Prepare Orange Sauce: While the hens are cooking, use a zester to obtain orange peel without cutting into the white pith of the fruit. Slice the oranges in half and squeeze out the juice. In a saucepan, combine the orange juice and zest. Heat the mixture thoroughly over low heat, making sure not to boil it.
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Continue Cooking Hens: After 30 minutes, remove the hens from the oven and carefully turn them breast-side up. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, until the total cooking time reaches 1 hour and 15 minutes.
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Thicken Sauce: While the hens are finishing cooking, blend the cornstarch with the orange juice and zest mixture in the saucepan. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
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Serve: To serve, place each Cornish game hen on a plate and generously pour the orange sauce over them. Garnish with additional orange zest and parsley for a beautiful presentation.
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Enjoy: Serve your Cornish game hens with orange sauce alongside your favorite side dishes, such as buttered broccoli or asparagus and sautéed onions and red peppers.
This exquisite dish is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender Cornish game hens and tangy orange sauce, creating a memorable dining experience for all.
