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Fig Glazed Cornish Hens with Barley Stuffing

  • Author: lilie
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available

Description

A sophisticated and nutritious dish featuring Cornish hens glazed with figs and stuffed with hearty barley, perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 Cornish hens
  • 1 cup barley
  • 1 cup chopped figs
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken stock to a boil. Add the barley, reduce the heat, and simmer for about 30 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked barley, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped figs, thyme, and chicken stock. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
  5. Rinse the Cornish hens under cold water and pat them dry. Gently lift the skin and stuff each bird with the barley stuffing. Use toothpicks to secure the skin if necessary.
  6. Place the stuffed hens in a roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over them and sprinkle with salt and pepper, ensuring seasonings coat evenly.
  7. In a small bowl, mix balsamic vinegar with a tablespoon of olive oil. Brush this mixture over the hens. Roast for approximately 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), basting occasionally with the pan juices.
  8. Once cooked, remove the hens from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with pan juices.

Notes

Consider alternatives like quinoa for a gluten-free option. Pair with fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 hen
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Cornish hens, barley stuffing, holiday recipes, healthy dinner, elegant meals

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Find it online: https://liliesrecipes.com/fig-glazed-cornish-hens-barley-stuffing/