Whole Cornish Game Hens Deep Fried
๐ Prep Time: 12 hours
๐ Cook Time: 25 minutes
๐ Total Time: 12 hours 25 minutes
๐ฝ Servings: 2 hens
Description:
Indulge in the savory delight of perfectly deep-fried Cornish Game Hens, prepared using Di Neal’s Master Brine Recipe for meats, ensuring tender and flavorful results every time. As these petite birds cook, observe closely, as variations in shape and thickness may cause hens of the same weight to finish cooking at different times. Note that the cook time does not encompass the preparation of the brine.
Ingredients:
- 2 Cornish game hens
- 1/2 cup flour
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
Master Brine:
- [List of ingredients for Di Neal’s Master Brine Recipe]
Instructions:
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Begin by ensuring you have a tall, narrow pot that can accommodate both hens submerged in oil without exceeding half its capacity.
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To gauge if your pot is suitable, place the hens inside and fill with water until they are covered. Ensure they can move freely without being tightly packed.
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Remove the hens and check the water level, which will determine the amount of oil needed for deep frying.
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If using, prepare Di Neal’s Master Brine according to the recipe.
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Rinse the hens thoroughly under cold water and immerse them in the cooled brine. Ensure they are completely covered by the brine.
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Refrigerate the hens overnight to allow them to marinate and absorb the flavors of the brine.
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An hour before cooking, remove the hens from the refrigerator to bring them to room temperature.
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Drain off the brine and pat the hens dry with paper towels, both inside and out, to prevent oil from splattering during frying. Place them in a colander to drain further and reach room temperature.
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Once the hens have reached room temperature, heat the oil in the pot to 375ยบF (190ยบC).
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While the oil is heating, combine the flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl to create a seasoned coating for the hens.
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Lightly coat each hen with the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
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Carefully lower the first hen into the hot oil, holding it by the legs and lowering it slowly to prevent oil from splattering.
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Once the first hen is fully submerged, coat the second hen in the seasoned flour mixture and lower it into the oil alongside the first.
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Ensure the hens are evenly cooked by moving them around in the oil, allowing all sides to achieve a light golden brown color.
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The hens should cook completely in 25 minutes or less, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
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If you need to hold the hens for a short while before serving, preheat the oven to 200ยบF (95ยบC) and place a wire rack over a pan.
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Transfer the fried hens to the wire rack and keep them warm in the oven for up to 30 minutes.
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For additional seasoning, you can incorporate desired spices into the flour mixture before coating the hens or opt for injecting flavor directly into the birds, although the latter method is cautioned against due to the risk of oil boiling over.
Enjoy the succulent goodness of these deep-fried Cornish Game Hens, meticulously prepared to culinary perfection with a hint of homemade brine and a crispy, golden finish!
