Spice-Roasted Cornish Hens with Cucumber-Yogurt SauceElinor Carucci
The hens roast in about half the time it takes to cook a whole chicken. Offer wilted spinach alongside.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients
3 1 1/4 to 1 1/2-pound Cornish game hens, split lengthwise
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 tablespoon coriander seeds
1 3/4 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil
1/2 10-ounce cucumber, peeled, cubed
1/2 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
12 fresh cilantro sprigs
4 garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons sour cream
Preparation
Step 1
Position rack in top third of oven; preheat to 450°F. Arrange hens, skin side up, on large rimmed baking sheet. Finely grind cumin and next 3 ingredients in spice mill.
Step 2
Brush hens with oil. Sprinkle on both sides with spice mixture. Roast hens until cooked through, about 35 minutes.
Step 3
Meanwhile, combine all remaining ingredients in processor. Blend until almost smooth. Season sauce with salt and pepper.
Step 4
Place hens on plates. Serve with sauce.
