Caribbean Game Hens: A Tropical Delight
Indulge in a taste of the Caribbean with these deliciously marinated game hens that embody the vibrant flavors and zest of island cuisine. This recipe combines the tangy brightness of lime with the rich, warming notes of white rum, resulting in a dish that promises to transport your taste buds straight to a tropical paradise. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply craving something extraordinary for dinner, these Caribbean Game Hens will impress your guests and family alike.
Recipe Overview
| Name | Caribbean Game Hens |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Prep Time | 1 hour 10 minutes (includes marinating time) |
| Total Time | 1 hour 25 minutes |
| Description | A marinated poultry dish featuring lime and white rum that captures the essence of the Caribbean. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful weeknight meal. |
| Recipe Category | Poultry |
| Servings | 6 |
| Aggregated Rating | 5 (from 2 reviews) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380.1 |
| Total Fat | 23.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 168.3 mg |
| Sodium | 83 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugars | 5.8 g |
| Protein | 28.8 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | Black peppercorns |
| 2 | Ground coriander |
| 1 | White rum |
| 1/4 | Honey |
| 2 | Lime rind |
| 2 | Lime juice |
| 1 | Garlic, minced |
| 2 | Fresh ginger, minced |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the white rum, honey, lime rind, lime juice, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Whisk together until the mixture is well-blended and the honey is dissolved, creating a fragrant and flavorful marinade that will infuse the game hens with delightful tropical notes.
-
-
Marinate the Game Hens: Take your game hens and place them in a shallow glass or ceramic dish. Pour the marinade over the hens, ensuring they are completely coated. Turn the hens gently to ensure an even distribution of the marinade. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and allow the game hens to marinate at room temperature for approximately 1 hour. This marinating process will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
-
Prepare for Cooking: After marinating, carefully drain the game hens, reserving the marinade for later use. This reserved marinade will be brushed onto the hens during the cooking process, enhancing the flavor even further.
-
Skewer the Game Hens: Take wooden skewers and thread them through the wings and legs of each game hen half. This will help keep the birds together during cooking and ensure even cooking throughout.
-
Season the Hens: In a small bowl, combine the black peppercorns and ground coriander. Use this spice mixture to rub over the skin of each game hen, adding an additional layer of flavor that complements the marinade beautifully.
-
Cook the Hens: Preheat your grill to medium heat, or alternatively, preheat your broiler. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewered game hens on the grill or under the broiler. Cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking and browning. The hens are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
-
Glaze with Marinade: As the hens cook, occasionally brush them with the reserved marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked through, remove the game hens from the grill or broiler and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the hens on a large platter, garnished with fresh lime wedges and herbs if desired, and enjoy the delightful tropical flavors that will take you on a culinary journey to the Caribbean.
Conclusion
This recipe for Caribbean Game Hens is not only a celebration of bold flavors but also a testament to the art of marinating and grilling poultry. With the sweetness of honey, the tartness of lime, and the warmth of spices, these game hens are sure to be a showstopper at any meal. Try this dish for your next gathering, and let the flavors of the Caribbean inspire your cooking adventures!
This detailed recipe captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine while providing clear instructions and nutritional information for your culinary enjoyment on Love With Recipes.
