Herb-Roasted Game Hens
serves 4
2 Cornish game hens (about 1-1/2 to 2 pounds each)
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme
Compound Butter
1 /2 cup butter, softened
1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon Crystal hot sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Stuffing Mixture
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 large shallots, peeled & minced
2 small ribs celery, minced
2 clementines, not peeled, chopped small
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 sprigs fresh thyme
Combine all ingredients in the Compound Butter list in a small bowl. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm. Combine all ingredients in the Stuffing Mixture list in a small bowl. Using a finger, carefully loosen the skin over the breasts & legs of the hens and evenly distribute the compound butter. Pack the stuffing into the cavities of the hens and truss with string or skewers. Roast in 350ยบ oven for 1 hour, or until legs feel a little loose. You know, cuttin’ it loose. Foot loose.