How To Cook Cornish Game Hens Stuffed With Wild Rice

Creating a delectable masterpiece: Cornish Game Hens stuffed with heavenly wild rice

Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your guests with a truly sensational dish? Look no further than the exquisite Cornish Game Hens stuffed with wild rice. This elegant recipe combines tender Cornish game hens with the earthy flavors of wild rice, resulting in a mouthwatering feast that will leave everyone in awe. With a few easy steps and a touch of finesse, you’ll have a remarkable dish that is sure to take center stage at any special occasion.

Gathering the Ingredients

Before you embark on your culinary adventure, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a handy list of ingredients:

• 2 Cornish game hens
• 1 cup wild rice
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Cornish Game Hens

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once that’s done, it’s time to prepare the Cornish game hens for stuffing. Start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Place the hens on a cutting board, breast side down, and carefully remove the backbone by using kitchen shears or a sharp knife. Once the backbone is removed, turn the hens over and press down firmly to flatten them.

Creating the Wild Rice Stuffing

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show: the wild rice stuffing. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms, and sauté until they become tender and fragrant. Next, add the wild rice, thyme, salt, and black pepper to the saucepan, stirring to coat the rice with the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Stuffing and Cooking the Game Hens

Take the cooked wild rice stuffing and carefully divide it between the two flattened Cornish game hens. Spread the stuffing evenly over each hen, pressing it gently with your hands. Now, using kitchen twine or skewers, securely tie or fasten the hens to keep the stuffing intact during cooking.

Place the stuffed Cornish game hens on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, ensuring they are breast side up. Roast the hens in the preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the hens reaches 165°F (74°C). The hens should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

Presenting Your Culinary Masterpiece

Once cooked to perfection, remove the Cornish game hens from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This will ensure that the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and succulent dish. Carefully remove the kitchen twine or skewers before serving. Place each hen on a serving plate, surrounded by a colorful array of seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad.

Your masterpiece is complete! Take a moment to savor the aroma and the visual delight of the Cornish Game Hens stuffed with wild rice. With its tender meat, flavorful stuffing, and elegant presentation, this dish is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.

So, why wait for a special occasion? Gather your ingredients, unleash your culinary creativity, and let these Cornish Game Hens stuffed with wild rice become your signature dish, destined to make lasting memories around the dining table.