Native American Game Hens

Native American Game Hens Recipe - A Flavorful Twist on Classic Cuisine

Region / culture: Native America | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Native American Game Hens is a traditional recipe that showcases the flavors of the indigenous ingredients and cooking techniques of Native American cuisine. This dish features tender game hens cooked in a flavorful broth and served with a rich mushroom gravy.

History

The Native American Game Hens recipe has been passed down through generations of Native American tribes, who have long relied on hunting and gathering for their food sources. Game hens were a popular choice for meals due to their small size and rich flavor. This recipe combines traditional cooking methods with modern ingredients to create a delicious and hearty dish.

Ingredients

4 cornish game hens, split in half
2 onions, quartered
2 bay leaves
12 peppercorns
2 small carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
2 tsp salt
8 tbsp margarine
1 tsp thyme
0.5 tsp rosemary
0.5 cup chopped mushrooms
4 tbsp flour
4 tbsp finely chopped black walnut meats

How to prepare

Place the hens in a large pot and barely cover them with water.
Add a bay leaf, onion, carrot, celery, salt, and peppercorns.
Bring it to a rolling boil, then turn down the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes.
Remove the birds from the broth and reserve the broth.
Using a large skillet, sauté the birds in 4 tbsp of margarine until they turn golden.
Place the birds into a Dutch oven, sprinkle them with thyme and rosemary, and bake them slowly for 30 minutes.
Bring the broth to a rolling boil and cook it down to 4 cups.
Sauté the mushrooms in a large skillet with the remaining margarine.
Add the broth and flour, and stir well.
Add the chopped walnuts.
Serve with the birds over cooked brown rice.

Variations

Substitute the game hens with chicken thighs or drumsticks for a more budget-friendly option.
Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the broth for a heartier dish.
Use different herbs and spices, such as sage or cumin, to change up the flavor profile of the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to simmer the game hens in the broth for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

- Sautéing the game hens in margarine before baking them helps to seal in the juices and create a crispy skin.

- Cooking down the broth to 4 cups intensifies the flavors and creates a rich base for the mushroom gravy.

- Serving the game hens over cooked brown rice adds a hearty and nutritious element to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Native American Game Hens with a side of cooked brown rice and a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the game hens in the broth helps to infuse them with flavor and keep them moist.

- Sautéing the game hens before baking them creates a crispy skin and adds depth to the dish.

- Cooking down the broth to create a rich gravy adds a luxurious touch to the meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute chicken broth for the water in the recipe for added depth of flavor.

- Use different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, for a unique twist on the gravy.

Make Ahead Tips

The broth and gravy can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- The game hens can be marinated in the broth overnight for even more flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Native American Game Hens on a bed of cooked brown rice with a drizzle of the mushroom gravy on top. - Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a glass of red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the game hens and mushroom gravy.

- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the game hens and gravy in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 20g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 6% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Nuts

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and iron, while also providing essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Native American Game Hens is a delicious and hearty dish that showcases the flavors of traditional Native American cuisine. With tender game hens cooked in a flavorful broth and served with a rich mushroom gravy, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting a Native American reservation with my husband. We were welcomed with open arms and invited to join in a traditional feast.

As we sat around the fire pit, the aroma of roasting game hens filled the air. I watched as the women of the tribe skillfully prepared the hens, rubbing them with a mixture of herbs and spices before placing them on the hot coals to cook.

I was mesmerized by the care and attention that went into each step of the process. The women worked together seamlessly, each one bringing their own unique touch to the dish.

I knew I had to learn how to make these game hens myself. I approached one of the women and asked if she would be willing to teach me her recipe. She smiled warmly and welcomed me into her home.

Over the next few days, I learned the secrets of making Native American game hens. The key, I discovered, was in the marinade. The women showed me how to combine a blend of herbs and spices with a splash of vinegar to create a flavorful marinade that would infuse the hens with a rich, smoky flavor.

I watched as they carefully rubbed the marinade into the hens, ensuring that every crevice was coated. They explained that this step was crucial in ensuring that the meat would be tender and juicy.

Next, they showed me how to prepare the fire pit. They arranged hot coals in a ring and placed a metal grate on top. The hens were then placed on the grate and covered with a makeshift lid to trap the heat and smoke.

As the hens cooked, the women shared stories of their ancestors and the traditions that had been passed down through generations. I listened intently, soaking in every word and feeling a deep connection to the history and culture of the tribe.

Finally, after hours of slow cooking, the game hens were ready. The women removed them from the fire pit and presented them to me with pride. The hens were perfectly cooked, with a crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat.

I took my first bite and was instantly transported back to that warm summer day on the reservation. The flavors were bold and earthy, with a hint of sweetness from the marinade. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I thanked the women profusely for sharing their recipe with me. They smiled and told me that I was now a part of their tribe, connected by a shared love of food and tradition.

Since that day, I have made Native American game hens countless times, always with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the women who taught me their recipe. Each time I cook them, I am reminded of the rich history and culture that has been passed down through the generations.

And so, whenever I prepare this dish, I am not just making a meal – I am honoring a tradition, a legacy, and a connection to a people who have welcomed me into their world with open arms.