Cornish Game Hens Andalusia

Cornish Game Hens Andalusia Recipe from Cornwall,Spain

Region / culture: Cornwall, Spain | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cornish Game Hens Andalusia is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the unique flavors of orange juice, raisins, and almonds with tender cornish game hens. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.

History

This recipe is inspired by the traditional cuisine of Andalusia, a region in southern Spain known for its rich and diverse culinary heritage. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in this dish reflects the influence of Moorish, Jewish, and Christian culinary traditions that have shaped Andalusian cuisine over the centuries.

Ingredients

4 cornish game hens, 16-20 oz (567 g) each, thawed
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups orange juice
salt and ground black pepper
0.25 cup melted butter or margarine
0.25 cup raisins
0.25 cup sliced almonds
1 tbsp cornstarch
3 to 4 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Place the hens in a pan.
Combine parsley, onion, garlic, and orange juice. Pour the mixture over the hens and let them marinate for 1 hour.
Remove the hens from the marinade, pat them dry, and season with salt and pepper.
Brush the hens with butter, ensuring they are well coated.
Arrange the hens in a baking pan and bake uncovered at 400°F (204°C) for 30 minutes.
Pour the marinade over the hens, sprinkle with raisins and almonds, cover, and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes.
Remove from the oven and blend cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water.
Stir the cornstarch mixture into the pan juices and cook until the sauce is clear and thickened.
Arrange the hens on a serving plate, surround them with rice, and spoon the sauce over the rice and hens.
Garnish with orange slices and stuff, if desired.

Variations

Substitute dried cranberries or apricots for the raisins.
Use walnuts or pistachios instead of almonds.
Add a splash of sherry or brandy to the sauce for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the hens for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Basting the hens with butter during baking will help keep them moist and flavorful.

- Be sure to check the internal temperature of the hens with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.

- Garnish the dish with fresh orange slices for a pop of color and citrusy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cornish Game Hens Andalusia with a side of Spanish rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Marinating the hens helps infuse them with flavor and keep them moist.

- Basting the hens with butter during baking adds richness and flavor.

- Thickening the sauce with cornstarch creates a luscious and velvety texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken thighs or breasts instead of cornish game hens.

- Swap orange juice for lemon juice or white wine.

- Replace margarine with olive oil or coconut oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the hens in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. The sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the hens on a platter with a decorative garnish of fresh herbs or citrus slices. Serve with a colorful side dish to create an elegant and visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cornish Game Hens Andalusia with a crisp white wine such as a Spanish Albariño or a light red wine like a Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water infused with fresh citrus slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cornish Game Hens Andalusia contains approximately 450 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cornish Game Hens Andalusia contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cornish Game Hens Andalusia contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cornish Game Hens Andalusia contains approximately 35 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (almonds) and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Cornish Game Hens Andalusia is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Cornish Game Hens Andalusia is a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the sweet and savory flavors of orange juice, raisins, and almonds with tender cornish game hens. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and make any meal feel like a special occasion. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Cornish Game Hens Andalusia. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her quaint little village in Spain. Maria was an amazing cook, and I always loved watching her work her magic in the kitchen.

On this particular day, Maria was preparing a special meal for her family, and she invited me to join her. As she gathered the ingredients for the dish, she told me the story of how she learned to make Cornish Game Hens Andalusia.

"It all started many years ago," Maria began, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. "I was a young girl, just learning how to cook. My mother was a fantastic cook, and she taught me everything I know. But this recipe, this one I learned from an old friend of hers who lived in a small village in Andalusia."

Maria went on to explain how her mother's friend had shown her the traditional way of preparing the dish, passing down the recipe from generation to generation. The secret, she said, was in the marinade – a blend of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and a mix of herbs and spices that gave the hens their delicious flavor.

As Maria taught me the steps to making the dish, I could see the passion and love she put into each movement. From cleaning and marinating the hens to roasting them to perfection in the oven, every step was done with care and precision.

After hours of preparation, the hens were finally ready, their golden skin glistening in the candlelight. As we sat down to eat, the aroma of the dish filled the room, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth – the tangy lemon, the earthy herbs, the juicy meat of the hens – it was a culinary experience like no other. I was hooked, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the years, I refined the recipe, adding my own twists and touches to make it truly my own. I experimented with different herbs and spices, played around with the marinade ingredients, and even tried cooking the hens on the grill for a smoky flavor.

Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that summer day in Spain, of Maria's warm hospitality and the joy of discovering a new recipe. And now, whenever I cook Cornish Game Hens Andalusia for my family and friends, I share not just a meal but a story – a story of tradition, of love, and of the joy of cooking.

So next time you sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Cornish Game Hens Andalusia, remember the journey that led me to this recipe, and savor every bite with the knowledge that it was created with love and passion. Bon appétit!