Why Make This Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen
There’s something truly special about roasted Cornish hen that makes it perfect for any occasion. This Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen combines the warmth of apple cider and the rich sweetness of maple syrup, creating a delightful glaze that enhances the tender and juicy meat. Imagine the aroma of caramelized edges mingled with savory herbs as it bubbles away in your oven. This dish is not just for special gatherings; its ease of preparation makes it suitable for weeknight dinners, too.
How to Make Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen
Making this Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen is straightforward and enjoyable, even for beginner cooks. It involves mixing a few ingredients, marinating the hen, and letting the oven do the hard work for you while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents. The result is an elegant yet comforting meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 Cornish hen
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the apple cider, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place the Cornish hen in a roasting pan and pour the cider mixture over the hen, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting occasionally with the juices, until the hen is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the hen rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. Enjoy the roasted hen with your choice of sides, like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Nutritional Information
This Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen serves about 2, providing a delightful and hearty meal option. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 27g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 30g
How to Serve Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen
This delectable Cornish hen makes a stunning centerpiece for your dining table. Consider serving it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or a warm apple cider to enhance those fall-inspired flavors.
How to Store Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen
After enjoying this flavorful dish, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the hen in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers; they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen
- Basting is Key: Basting the hen with its own juices every 15-20 minutes helps keep the meat moist and adds flavor.
- Marinate for More Flavor: If you have time, let the hen marinate in the cider mixture for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. This step enhances the taste significantly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfect cooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The safe internal temperature for poultry is 165°F (75°C).
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap out the thyme for other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile.
Delicious Variations
- Herbed Butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs and maple syrup, then spread under the skin of the hen for extra richness.
- Citrus Infused: Add slices of lemon or orange to the inside of the hen for a zesty twist.
- Spicy Variation: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the cider mixture for a spicy kick.
- Single Serving: Use smaller game hens or adjust the recipe proportions for a single serving, perfect for date night or a cozy meal for one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of poultry instead of Cornish hen?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs or even a whole chicken, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How can I tell if the Cornish hen is fully cooked?
The best way to confirm it’s done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (75°C).
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
For a vegetarian option, consider using hearty root vegetables like butternut squash or pumpkin, seasoned similarly with apple cider and maple syrup, roasted until tender and caramelized.
Conclusion
This Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen is a simple yet delightful dish that can elevate any meal, offering a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Its ease of preparation makes it a fantastic choice for both special occasions and family dinners. Trust us; once you try this recipe, it may just become a new favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the magical aromas fill your kitchen! Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your culinary successes with friends and family!
Cider Maple Oven Roasted Cornish Hen
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the apple cider, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place the Cornish hen in a roasting pan and pour the cider mixture over the hen, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes, basting occasionally with the juices, until the hen is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the hen rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.