Cornish Game Hen Apricot Glaze: A Delicious Recipe for Your Next Dinner Party

Cornish Game Hen Apricot Glaze is a delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any dining table. Imagine succulent, tender hens glazed with a sweet and tangy apricot sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that will leave your guests raving. This recipe not only showcases the unique taste of Cornish game hens but also pays homage to a culinary tradition that dates back centuries. Originating from the United Kingdom, these small birds have become a favorite in many households for their rich flavor and impressive presentation.

People love Cornish Game Hen Apricot Glaze for its incredible taste and texture. The juicy meat pairs beautifully with the sticky glaze, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Additionally, this dish is surprisingly convenient to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. Join me as we explore this delightful recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 2 Cornish game hens (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup apricot preserves
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Cornish Game Hens

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the hens will cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden color. 2. **Prepare the Hens**: Rinse the Cornish game hens under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up during cooking. 3. **Season the Hens**: Generously season the inside and outside of each hen with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat. 4. **Add Olive Oil**: Drizzle the olive oil over the hens, making sure to rub it all over the skin. This will help the skin become crispy and golden brown. 5. **Spice It Up**: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and paprika. Rub this spice mixture all over the hens, ensuring they are well-coated.

Making the Apricot Glaze

6. **Combine Ingredients**: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apricot preserves, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. 7. **Heat the Glaze**: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will intensify the flavors and create a delicious glaze. 8. **Taste and Adjust**: After simmering, taste the glaze. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a bit more apple cider vinegar. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more apricot preserves.

Cooking the Hens

9. **Prepare for Roasting**: Place the seasoned Cornish game hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Make sure they are not overcrowded, as this will help them cook evenly. 10. **Glaze the Hens**: Using a brush or a spoon, generously coat the hens with the apricot glaze. Reserve some glaze for basting later. 11. **Roast the Hens**: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast the hens for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the hens with the reserved glaze every 15-20 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful. 12. **Check for Doneness**: To ensure the hens are fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. Once it reaches 165°F, they are done.

Resting and Serving

13. **Rest the Hens**: Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy. 14. **Garnish**: If desired, garnish the hens with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and added flavor. 15. **Carve and Serve**: To serve, carefully carve the hens into quarters or halves, depending on your preference. Arrange them on a serving platter and drizzle any remaining apricot glaze over the top for an extra burst of flavor. 16. **Pairing Suggestions**: These Cornish game hens pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Tips for Success

17. **Choosing the Hens**: When selecting Cornish game hens, look for ones that are plump and have a good amount of fat under the skin. This will help keep the meat moist during cooking. 18. **Marinating Option**: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the hens in the apricot glaze for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before roasting. 19. **Leftovers**: If you

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey into the world of Cornish Game Hen with Apricot Glaze, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress at their next dinner gathering or simply elevate a weeknight meal. The succulent, tender meat paired with the sweet and tangy apricot glaze creates a flavor profile that is both sophisticated and comforting. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to your table. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Cornish Game Hen with a side of roasted vegetables or a light, refreshing salad to balance the richness of the glaze. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with different fruit glazes, such as peach or mango, to give this dish a unique twist. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the flavor and presentation. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together, and remember, the Cornish Game Hen with Apricot Glaze is not just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to be savored. Happy cooking!

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