Cornish Hens with Challah Stuffing Recipe

A visitor named Eva Younger ready this dish on the PBS collection Jewish Cooking in America with Joan Nathan. Viewers adored how this recipe made homey rooster appear particular, because it provides every diner their very own little fowl full of fluffy challah stuffing.

What’s a Cornish hen?

A Cornish hen is also referred to as a Cornish recreation hen or Rock Cornish recreation hen, and it had its heyday within the Seventies earlier than falling out of favor. This small, younger rooster from the straight Cornish rooster breed or a crossbreed of a Cornish with one other sort of rooster could also be making a comeback, although. Its ready-to-cook weight might be as much as two kilos, per the USDA, which suggests the entire hen can function a private showstopper for every particular person on the desk.

Do Cornish hens have to be basted?

In contrast to bigger birds, Cornish hens don’t have to be basted. Their small measurement lets the pores and skin crisp naturally, and whereas basting might help in some recipes, it’s pointless right here — brushing with oil prevents drying, promotes even browning, and helps the spices adhere.

Notes from the Meals & Wine Take a look at Kitchen

• Make sure to totally pat the hens dry earlier than brushing with the spiced oil.
• If you would like, swap out the cup of water with rooster inventory or low-sodium broth to infuse the stuffing with much more taste.
• When able to roast, tuck the wings beneath the hen to forestall burning and promote even cooking.
• Go away an inch or two between every fowl so scorching air can flow into freely whereas roasting.

Advised pairing

California’s Santa Rita Hills area produces fragrant, structured Pinot Noirs that pair nicely with these roasted birds.