Roasted Cornish Game Hen Recipe

Cooking Directions

1. 1

   Prepare the Hens

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the cornish game hens under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. Rub the hens with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary. Stuff the cavity of each hen with lemon halves.

2. 2

   Roast the Hens

   Place the hens breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with pan juices halfway through.

3. 3

   Prepare the Vegetables

   While the hens are roasting, chop the seasonal vegetables. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for the last 30 minutes of the hens' cooking time.

4. 4

   Make the Pommes Puree

   Peel and chop the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt to taste.

5. 5

   Prepare the Pan Jus

   After the hens are done, transfer them to a plate to rest. In the roasting pan, add chicken stock and red wine, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer until reduced, then whisk in butter. Season with salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Serve

   Plate the pommes puree, topped with roasted vegetables, and place the cornish game hen on top. Drizzle with natural pan jus and serve hot.