Recipe: Roasted Cornish Game Hens 🍗

Description:

Indulge in the succulent flavors of these Roasted Cornish Game Hens, marinated in a delightful blend of herbs and sweet-sour concoction, then perfectly baked in the oven or alternatively spit-roasted to golden perfection. Served atop a bed of pasta, surrounded by a medley of vegetables, each half hen is a culinary masterpiece that promises to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is a surefire hit for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish game hens
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• Fresh thyme, marjoram, oregano, and sage (to taste)

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 108.8mg
• Sodium: 83mg
• Carbohydrates: 18.7g
  • Fiber: 0.1g
  • Sugar: 17.3g
• Protein: 24.3g

Recipe Yield:

• 2 servings (1 game hen each)

Instructions:

Marinating the Game Hens:

1. Preparation: Begin by gathering all the ingredients listed.
2. Marinade Creation: In a plastic bag, combine honey, vinegar, minced garlic, and a selection of fresh herbs such as thyme, marjoram, oregano, and sage. Seal the bag and give it a gentle shake to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.
3. Marinating Process: Place the Cornish game hens into the plastic bag with the marinade. Seal the bag securely and massage the marinade onto the hens, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the bag in the refrigerator and allow the hens to marinate for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse and tenderize the meat.

Cooking the Roasted Cornish Game Hens:

1. Preheating the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the hens are marinating, ensuring it reaches the desired temperature before you start cooking.
2. Baking Preparation: Once the marinating time is complete, remove the marinated game hens from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
3. Baking Process: Place the marinated Cornish game hens, skin side up, along with any remaining marinade, in a baking dish. Ensure the hens are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
4. Baking Time: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake the hens for approximately 1 hour or until they are cooked through, with the internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C). Throughout the baking process, baste the hens occasionally with the juices from the pan to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Final Touches: Once the hens are beautifully roasted and golden brown, remove them from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and succulent.

Serving Suggestions:

• For an elegant presentation, serve each half hen on a nest of cooked pasta, surrounded by a vibrant array of roasted or steamed vegetables.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of the pan juices for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
• Pair with your favorite side dishes, such as garlic mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad, to create a well-rounded meal that will delight your guests.

Recipe Notes:

• To prepare more than two hens, simply adjust the quantities of the marinade ingredients accordingly, using 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon each of vinegar and minced garlic per hen.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the marinade to your liking.
• For a smoky and charred flavor, consider spit-roasting the marinated hens over an open flame or on a barbecue grill, rotating them slowly until they are evenly cooked and beautifully caramelized.
• Store any leftover roasted Cornish game hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy them cold or gently reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.