Prepare yourself for a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of New England with this tantalizing recipe for Roasted Cornish Game Hens. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive Thanksgiving feast, these succulent hens will surely impress your guests and tantalize their taste buds.
To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need to set aside some time for preparation, as these hens benefit from a delightful marinade that infuses them with aromatic herbs and zesty citrus flavors. But fear not, for the end result is well worth the wait.
First, gather your ingredients, including a fresh lemon, aromatic olive oil, pungent garlic cloves, fragrant dried thyme and rosemary, along with a couple of bay leaves, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, and of course, salt and pepper to taste. Additionally, you’ll need some unsalted butter to impart a rich and indulgent finish to the dish.
Now, let’s dive into the culinary process. Begin by carefully splitting the Cornish game hens and removing the ribs and backbone, ensuring that they are ready to soak up all the flavors of the marinade. Next, combine all the aforementioned ingredients, except for the butter, in a bowl, creating a tantalizing marinade that will infuse the hens with layers of flavor. Allow the hens to luxuriate in this flavorful bath for anywhere between 2 to 6 hours, allowing the herbs and spices to work their magic.
As the hens soak up the flavors of the marinade, it’s important to bring them to room temperature before they hit the heat of the oven. This ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to truly shine.
Now, it’s time to preheat your oven to a sizzling 500°F, getting it nice and hot to achieve that perfect golden crust on the hens. While the oven works its magic, remove the hens from the marinade and pat them dry, allowing excess moisture to be removed and ensuring a crispy exterior.
Once the hens are ready, arrange them in a single layer in an oven dish, allowing them to bask in the heat of the oven. But wait, there’s more! Before they enter their fiery abode, brush them generously with melted butter, infusing them with richness and flavor. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and pepper, ensuring that every bite is seasoned to perfection.
Now, slide the dish into the preheated oven and let the magic happen. Roast the hens for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust and become tender and juicy on the inside. Don’t forget to brush them with more butter once or twice during the cooking process, adding an extra layer of indulgence and ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.
As the tantalizing aroma fills your kitchen and your taste buds tingle with anticipation, you’ll know that these New England Roasted Cornish Game Hens are destined to be a culinary masterpiece. With their succulent meat, infused with citrusy zest and aromatic herbs, they are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
So, gather your loved ones around the table, and prepare to savor every delicious bite of these mouthwatering hens. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a weeknight treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
