Cornish game hens are a popular dish for special occasions, but they can be intimidating to cook, especially for those who are new to cooking. However, with a slow cooker, you can easily cook delicious and tender Cornish game hens with minimal effort. In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker, including preparation, cooking time, and some delicious variations.
What are Cornish Game Hens?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about what Cornish game hens are. Cornish game hens are a type of young chicken that is specifically bred for its small size and tender meat. They are usually harvested at around 4-6 weeks of age and weigh between 1-2 pounds. Cornish game hens are known for their rich, buttery flavor and tender texture, making them a popular choice for special occasions.
Benefits of Cooking Cornish Game Hens in a Slow Cooker
Cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker has several benefits. Here are a few:
- Easy to cook: Slow cookers are designed to make cooking easy and convenient. Simply season the hens, place them in the slow cooker, and let the cooker do the work.
- Tender and juicy: Slow cookers are great for cooking meat, as they allow for low and slow cooking that breaks down the connective tissues and makes the meat tender and juicy.
- Less mess: Cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker means less mess in the kitchen. The slow cooker contains the mess, making cleanup easy.
Basic Recipe for Cooking Cornish Game Hens in a Slow Cooker
Here is a basic recipe for cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker:
Ingredients:
- 2-4 Cornish game hens
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
- Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
- Rinse the Cornish game hens and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Rub the mixture all over the Cornish game hens, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
- Place the Cornish game hens in the slow cooker and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook the Cornish game hens on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Variations on the Basic Recipe
Here are a few variations on the basic recipe:
- Lemon and Herb: Add some lemon juice and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to the mixture for a bright and refreshing flavor.
- Spicy: Add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Asian-Inspired: Add some soy sauce and honey to the mixture for a sweet and savory flavor.
Tips for Cooking Cornish Game Hens in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips for cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker:
- Make sure the hens are not overcrowded: Cook the hens in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the hens rest: Let the hens rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature for Cornish game hens in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the hens and the desired level of doneness. Here is a general guideline:
- Low heat: 6-8 hours for 1-2 pound hens, 8-10 hours for 2-3 pound hens.
- High heat: 3-4 hours for 1-2 pound hens, 4-6 hours for 2-3 pound hens.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few serving suggestions for Cornish game hens cooked in a slow cooker:
- Roasted vegetables: Serve the hens with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a well-rounded meal.
- Mashed potatoes: Serve the hens with mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting side dish.
- Salad: Serve the hens on top of a salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and refreshing meal.
Nutrition Information
Here is the nutrition information for Cornish game hens cooked in a slow cooker:
| Nutrition Information | Per Serving |
| ——————— | ———– |
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 80mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 0g |
Conclusion
Cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker is a delicious and easy way to prepare this special occasion dish. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a tender and juicy meal that is sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, Cornish game hens cooked in a slow cooker are a great choice.
What are the benefits of cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker?
Cooking Cornish game hens in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare this dish because it allows for even cooking and tender meat. The slow cooker’s low heat and moisture help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful final product. Additionally, using a slow cooker is a convenient and hands-off way to cook, as it allows you to simply set it and forget it.
This method of cooking is also ideal for busy people who want to come home to a ready-to-eat meal. Simply season the game hens, place them in the slow cooker, and let the appliance do the work for you. When you return home, you’ll be greeted by the delicious aroma of roasted game hens, and you can serve them hot, straight from the slow cooker.
How do I prepare the Cornish game hens for slow cooking?
To prepare the Cornish game hens for slow cooking, start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Next, season the game hens with your desired herbs and spices, making sure to rub the seasonings all over the birds, including under the skin. You can also stuff the cavity of each game hen with aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery for added flavor.
Once the game hens are seasoned, place them in the slow cooker, breast side up. You can also add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as chicken broth or white wine, to help keep the game hens moist and add flavor to the dish. Finally, cover the slow cooker and set it to the desired cooking time, usually 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
What is the ideal cooking time for Cornish game hens in a slow cooker?
The ideal cooking time for Cornish game hens in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the game hens and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, cook the game hens on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You can check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
It’s also important to note that the game hens will continue to cook a bit after they’re removed from the slow cooker, so it’s better to err on the side of undercooking than overcooking. If you prefer your game hens more well done, you can always cook them for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the Cornish game hens?
Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the slow cooker with the Cornish game hens. In fact, this is a great way to create a complete meal with minimal effort. Some popular vegetables to add to the slow cooker include carrots, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers. Simply chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker with the game hens.
The vegetables will cook slowly in the juices of the game hens, absorbing all the flavors and aromas of the dish. You can also add some aromatics like garlic and herbs to the slow cooker for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you add, as some may take longer to cook than others.
How do I ensure the Cornish game hens stay moist during slow cooking?
To ensure the Cornish game hens stay moist during slow cooking, it’s essential to keep them covered with liquid. You can use chicken broth, white wine, or even just water to keep the game hens moist. You can also add some fat like butter or oil to the slow cooker to help keep the game hens juicy.
Another way to keep the game hens moist is to cover them with foil during the last hour of cooking. This will help to trap the moisture and heat, ensuring the game hens stay tender and juicy. You can also baste the game hens with the juices from the slow cooker every hour or so to keep them moist and add flavor.
Can I cook frozen Cornish game hens in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook frozen Cornish game hens in a slow cooker, but it’s essential to follow some guidelines to ensure food safety. First, make sure to thaw the game hens completely before cooking, or cook them on the high setting for an additional 2-3 hours.
It’s also crucial to cook the game hens to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the game hens. Additionally, make sure to cook the game hens immediately after thawing, and never refreeze them once they’ve been thawed.
How do I serve the slow-cooked Cornish game hens?
The slow-cooked Cornish game hens can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. You can serve them hot, straight from the slow cooker, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by your choice of sides. Some popular side dishes include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and salad.
You can also let the game hens cool completely and serve them cold, sliced and served on a platter or as part of a buffet. Additionally, you can use the leftover game hens to make sandwiches, salads, or soups. The possibilities are endless, and the slow-cooked Cornish game hens are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.