The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to impress your guests than with a sophisticated and elegant dish like Rock Cornish Game Hens Elegante. These small birds are not only visually stunning but also incredibly flavorful. With a beautiful presentation and a delicious taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for your festive gatherings. Let’s dive into creating this delightful dish that will elevate any dinner table.
**Rock Cornish Game Hens Elegante**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 Rock Cornish game hens, thawed
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons of butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of white wine
– 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to accommodate both game hens.
2. Begin by preparing the hens. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the cavities of the hens with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic and softened butter. Mix well until evenly incorporated. Gently lift the skin of each hen and spread some of the garlic butter mixture underneath the skin.
4. Place a couple of lemon slices and a sprig of rosemary inside the cavity of each hen. Tie the legs of each hen together with kitchen twine for a neat presentation.
5. Arrange the hens in the prepared baking dish. Season the exterior of the hens with additional salt and pepper.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, white wine, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir well to mix everything together.
7. Pour the liquid mixture over the hens in the baking dish. This flavorful bath will keep the hens moist and infuse them with delicious aromas as they cook.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast the hens for about 1 hour, basting occasionally with the pan juices.
9. After an hour, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Continue roasting the hens uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
10. Once the hens are cooked through and nicely browned, remove them from the oven. Tent the hens with foil and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
11. To serve, carefully carve the hens and arrange them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the pan juices over the hens and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
This Rock Cornish Game Hens Elegante recipe is a show-stopping centerpiece for any special occasion. The tender and flavorful meat, infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of sweetness, will have your guests asking for seconds. Serve this dish with your favorite side dishes for a complete and impressive meal that will leave a lasting impression. Enjoy creating this elegant and delicious recipe in the comfort of your own home!
