Best Apricot Stuffed Cornish Game Hens Recipes
APRICOT STUFFED CORNISH GAME HENS
Make and share this Apricot Stuffed Cornish Game Hens recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Chef mariajane
Categories Poultry
Time 1h50m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice half the onion and place slices on baking sheet. Dice the rest of the onion for stuffing. Set aside.
- Melt butter in skillet over medium heat. Add onion and ginger and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Whisk in 3 tablespoons apricot jam and chicken stock. and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add bread cubes. Stir and coat bread cubes. Let cool while preparing hens.
- Wash and dry game hens. Season inside cavity with salt and pepper. Fill cavity with about 1/2 cup of the stuffing. Tie legs together with kitchen twine and use skewers to close cavity. Place breast side up on bed of onions. Season with salt and pepper.
- GLAZE: Combine softened butter and 2 tablespoons apricot jam and spread over game hens.
- Roast uncovered in a preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 170°F Remove from oven, let rest about 10 minutes. To serve, cut each hen in half and serve with stuffing.
- TIPS: Blueberry or Wildberry jam would be great with this as well.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 259, Fat 9, SaturatedFat 3.9, Cholesterol 120.6, Sodium 243.1, Carbohydrate 17.7, Fiber 0.6, Sugar 6.1, Protein 25.8
APRICOT-STUFFED CORNISH GAME HENS
Number Of Ingredients 18
Steps:
- 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Grease a 2-quart casserole dish and set aside. 2. To make the stuffing, place the butter or margarine in a large skillet, and melt over medium heat. Add the almonds, and toss with the butter until lightly browned. Remove the nuts and set aside. 3. Add the onion and celery to the butter remaining in the skillet, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until tender. Add the stuffing mix. Then gradually stir in the chicken broth, add - ing only enough to lightly moisten the stuffing. Stir in the apricots, parsley, and reserved almonds. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the stuffing to cool thoroughly. 4. Empty the cavities of the hens, and rinse and dry inside and out. Sprinkle salt and pepper over the hens, inside and out. Then fill the cavities lightly with the stuffing, sew or skewer shut, and truss. Transfer the leftover stuffing to the prepared casserole dish. 5. To make the glaze, place all of the glaze ingredients in a medium-sized bowl, and stir to mix. Set aside. 6. Place the hens breast side down on a rack in a roasting pan, and roast for 15 minutes. Using tongs, carefully turn the hens breast side up, and spoon the glaze over the hens. Continue basting every 10 to 15 minutes, cooking the hens for a total of 45 minutes, or until they are tender and golden, and a thermometer inserted in the thigh shows a temperature of 180°F. 7. While the hens are cooking, bake the stuffing casserole, covered, alongside the hens for 15 minutes. Uncover the dish, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is crisp. Serve the stuffing with the game hens.
Nutrition Facts : Nutritional Facts Serves
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love
Apricot stuffed Cornish game hens recipes are an exquisite culinary experience that has been enjoyed by many for years, especially during holiday seasons. With the perfect blend of flavors, textures and a variety of ingredients, these hens are a must-try dish for anyone who enjoys gourmet meals. In this article, we will delve into the world of apricot stuffed Cornish game hens and explore everything you need to know about this tasty delicacy.
What are Cornish Game Hens?
Cornish game hens are small domestic chickens, usually weighing around one to two pounds, and are a cross between Cornish chicken and White Plymouth Rock chicken breeds. They are perfect for stuffing and roasting whole, and their size makes them a great choice for elegant dinner parties or special occasions.What are Apricots?
Apricots are small, sweet fruits with a slightly tangy taste. They are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. When cooked, they become soft and juicy, making them the perfect ingredient for stuffing.Ingredients Used in Apricot Stuffed Cornish Game Hens Recipes
The following are some of the staple ingredients used in apricot stuffed Cornish game hens recipes:Cornish Game Hens
As mentioned earlier, Cornish game hens are small domestic chickens that are perfect for stuffing and roasting whole. They are readily available in most grocery stores and supermarkets.Apricots
Apricots are the star ingredient in apricot stuffed Cornish game hen recipes. They are either chopped or pureed and mixed with other ingredients for the stuffing.Herbs and Spices
Herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and sage are commonly used in apricot stuffed Cornish game hen recipes. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice give the dish a warm and exotic flavor.Bread or Rice
Bread crumbs, rice, or quinoa are used as a base for the stuffing. They add texture and bulk to the stuffing and help to absorb the flavors.Butter or Oil
Butter or oil is used to sauté the onions and herbs before adding them to the stuffing.Broth or Wine
Broth or white wine is added to the roasting pan to keep the hens moist and tender as they cook.Preparation of Apricot Stuffed Cornish Game Hens
Preparing apricot stuffed Cornish game hens is a straightforward process that involves the following steps:Clean the Hens:
Remove any giblets or organs from the cavity and rinse the hens under cold water.Prepare the Stuffing:
Mix chopped apricots, bread crumbs, sautéed onions, herbs, and spices together in a bowl. Add some broth or wine to moisten the stuffing.Stuff the Hens:
Using a spoon, fill the cavity of each hen with the stuffing, making sure not to overstuff them.Tie the Legs Together:
Tie the legs of the hens together with cooking twine to hold the stuffing inside.Bake the Hens:
Place the hens in a roasting pan and brush them with melted butter or oil. Add some broth or wine to the bottom of the pan and roast in the oven at 375°F for approximately 1 hour.Serving Suggestions
Apricot stuffed Cornish game hens are a picture-perfect dish that goes well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. They are perfect for elegant dinner parties, holiday feasts or a romantic dinner for two.Conclusion
In conclusion, apricot stuffed Cornish game hens are an excellent choice for anyone who loves gourmet meals. With the perfect blend of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to impress your guests and make your taste buds dance with joy. So, the next time you're looking for a show-stopping main course, consider giving apricot stuffed Cornish game hens a try.
Apricot Stuffed Cornish Game Hens: Tips & Tricks for a Delicious Meal
Cornish game hens are a delightful and flavorful alternative to chicken. They're small enough to cook quickly, but still packed with all the juicy, tender meat you'd expect from a larger bird. One of the best things about Cornish game hens is how versatile they are – you can stuff them with all sorts of delicious fillings and serve them up in many different ways. One of the most popular and tasty variations is apricot stuffed Cornish game hens. The sweet and tangy fruit makes a perfect complement to the savory chicken, and the combination is sure to have your taste buds singing. In this article, we'll share some valuable tips and tricks for making delicious apricot stuffed Cornish game hens. From cooking techniques to ingredient recommendations, we've got everything you need to make your meal a success.
1. Choose the right apricots
The first step to making great apricot stuffed Cornish game hens is choosing the right apricots. You want to look for ripe, juicy fruit that is still firm to the touch. Make sure the apricots you choose are not overly soft or mushy, as this can indicate that they are overripe and may not taste as good. You might also consider slicing up the apricots and sautéing them in a little bit of butter or olive oil before stuffing them into your hens – this will help to release even more of their delicious flavor.
2. Experiment with spices and seasonings
While apricots are certainly a tasty addition to stuffed hens, they can be made even more delicious by using a variety of spices and seasonings. Some popular options include cumin, paprika, garlic powder, parsley, and thyme. By experimenting with different flavor combinations, you can create a unique and delicious meal that will have your family and friends raving.
3. Use high-quality ingredients
As with any recipe, using high-quality ingredients is key to making apricot stuffed Cornish game hens that are truly delicious. Choose chicken that is fresh and free from antibiotics and hormones, and look for apricots that are organic and have been grown without pesticides or herbicides. You might also consider using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought, as this will add even more depth and richness to your dish.
4. Make sure the hens are fully thawed
Before you start preparing your apricot stuffed Cornish game hens, make sure they are fully thawed. This is important for two reasons. First, it will ensure that the hens cook evenly and thoroughly, so that you don't end up with any undercooked or overcooked parts. Second, it will prevent the hens from drying out during the cooking process, which can affect their flavor and texture.
5. Properly season the hens
Seasoning your hens properly is one of the most important steps in making apricot stuffed Cornish game hens. You want to make sure that the chicken is flavored inside and out, so that every bite is bursting with flavor. Some good options for seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Make sure you rub the seasoning mixture well into the skin and inside the cavity of each hen, so that it is evenly distributed.
6. Choose the right baking dish
To ensure that your apricot stuffed Cornish game hens cook properly, it's important to choose the right baking dish. You want to select a dish that is just the right size for the hens, so that they fit snugly and don't flop around. You might also consider using a dish with higher sides, as this will help to trap in the juices and prevent the hens from drying out.
7. Cook at the right temperature
Cooking your apricot stuffed Cornish game hens at the right temperature is crucial for ensuring that they turn out perfectly. You want to cook them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and juicy, without being dry or overcooked.
8. Baste the hens
Basting your apricot stuffed Cornish game hens is an essential step in ensuring that they are juicy and flavorful. While they are cooking, be sure to baste them every 15-20 minutes with the juices that have accumulated in the bottom of the baking dish. This will help to keep the hens moist and delicious, and will also infuse them with even more flavor.
9. Let the hens rest
After you have finished cooking your apricot stuffed Cornish game hens, it's important to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and juicy. Cover the hens with foil and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
10. Serve with the right sides
Finally, when serving your apricot stuffed Cornish game hens, be sure to pair them with the right sides. Some great options include roasted root vegetables, green beans, and mashed potatoes. You might also consider serving the hens with a light salad or some fresh bread, depending on your taste preferences.
In conclusion, apricot stuffed Cornish game hens are a delicious and easy meal that is perfect for a variety of occasions. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can create a meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose high-quality ingredients, experiment with different spices and seasonings, and let your hens rest before serving. With a little bit of practice and patience, you'll soon be making apricot stuffed Cornish game hens that are delicious, juicy, and bursting with flavor.