Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests! Our Rum Glazed Cornish Hens Stuffed with Sweet Plantains is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Caribbean flavors that will transport you straight to a tropical paradise. Imagine succulent Cornish hens, perfectly roasted and bursting with the sweetness of ripe plantains, all glazed in a rich dark rum sauce that caramelizes to perfection. This dish is the showstopper you’ve been searching for—easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Dive into our recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 Cornish hens
- 2 ripe plantains, diced
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Rinse the Cornish hens thoroughly under cold water and pat dry completely with paper towels. This ensures crispy skin during roasting.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced plantains with cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to evenly coat the plantain pieces.
- Carefully create a pocket under the skin of each Cornish hen by gently separating the skin from the meat with your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Stuff the plantain mixture evenly under the skin of each hen, distributing it carefully to create an even layer.
- Tie the legs of each hen together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and maintain the hen's shape.
- In a small saucepan, combine dark rum, brown sugar, and olive oil. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely to create a smooth glaze.
- Place the stuffed Cornish hens in a roasting pan, breast side up. Brush the entire surface of the hens with half of the rum glaze.
- Roast the hens in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes, basting with the remaining glaze every 15 minutes to ensure a rich, caramelized exterior.
- Check the internal temperature of the hens with a meat thermometer; they are done when it reads 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from oven and let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Carefully cut the kitchen twine and serve the hens on a warm platter, garnishing with fresh herbs or additional rum glaze if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Plantains: Make sure to use ripe plantains, as their natural sweetness will enhance the flavor of the stuffing. Look for ones with yellow to black skin for the best results.
- Crispy Skin Tip: For extra crispy skin, ensure the Cornish hens are patted dry thoroughly after rinsing. This helps the skin to crisp up beautifully during roasting.
- Glaze Generously: Don’t be shy with the rum glaze! Basting every 15 minutes not only adds flavor but also helps create a stunning caramelized finish.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow the hens to rest for at least 10 minutes after removing them from the oven. This step is crucial for juicy meat, as it lets the juices redistribute throughout the hens.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked hens, invest in a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh for safe and delicious results.
- Garnish for Presentation: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving to elevate the dish visually and add a touch of freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 730kcal
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 42g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
