Are you tired of the usual chicken dishes? Why not try Cornish game hen? This small poultry is packed with flavor and is a great option for a special occasion. With 793 calories, one hen can be shared by two people. Let's dive into the nutritional benefits of this delicious alternative to chicken.
Cornish game hens are a good source of protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, iron, and niacin. A single serving also provides about 4% of daily recommended fiber intake.
In this article, we'll explore some tips and tricks on how to cook Cornish game hen and provide you with delicious recipe ideas to try at home.
An Introduction to Cornish Game Hen
Cornish game hen, also known as Rock Cornish game hen, is a smaller breed of chicken that originated in Cornwall, England. It's a young chicken, usually less than 5 weeks old and weighing between 1 and 2 pounds. The meat is tender and flavorful, making it a popular choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two.
How Many Calories Does Cornish Game Hen Have?
One raw 1-1/4 lb Cornish game hen yields about 793 calories after cooking and boning, with the skin eaten. However, this can vary depending on the cooking method and any additional ingredients used.
The Nutritional Profile of Cornish Game Hen
Cornish game hen is a good source of protein with about 40 grams per serving. It also contains important vitamins and minerals such as iron, niacin, and vitamin B6. Additionally, a serving of Cornish game hen provides about 4% of daily recommended fiber intake. However, it's important to note that the skin of the Cornish game hen contains a high amount of fat, so it's best to consume it in moderation.
Cornish Game Hen: A Delicious Alternative to Chicken
Cornish game hen is a great option for those who want to switch things up from the usual chicken dishes. The meat is tender and flavorful, and it can be prepared in a variety of ways such as roasted, grilled or fried. It also makes a great alternative for those who want to reduce their meat consumption as it yields a smaller serving size than a regular chicken.
Cooking Cornish Game Hen: Tips and Tricks
Cornish game hen can be cooked in a variety of ways. For roasting, it's recommended to preheat the oven to 375°F and cook for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For grilling, you can marinate the Cornish game hen for a few hours before grilling it over medium-high heat for about 20-25 minutes. Frying is also an option. Heat up oil in a skillet and cook the game hen for about 6-8 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions for Cornish Game Hen
Cornish game hen pairs well with a variety of sides such as roasted potatoes, green beans, rice pilaf or mashed sweet potatoes. For a fancy dinner, you can serve it with a side of roasted root vegetables and a glass of your favorite red wine. For a more casual meal, serve it on a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad dressing.
Cornish Game Hen: A Great Option for Special Occasions
Cornish game hen is perfect for special occasions as it can be served individually, making it a more intimate and elegant option for a romantic dinner for two. It's also a great option for a dinner party as it can be plated beautifully alongside other sides to make a pretty and delicious spread.
Cornish Game Hen vs Chicken: Which is Healthier?
Both Cornish game hen and chicken are healthy options. However, Cornish game hen is smaller and yields a smaller portion size, making it a good option for those looking to reduce their meat consumption. It's also high in protein and contains important vitamins and minerals just like chicken. However, Cornish game hen has a higher fat content in the skin, so it's best to consume it in moderation.
Cornish Game Hen Recipes: Ideas to Try at Home
Here are some delicious recipe ideas for you to try at home: - Lemon and herb roasted Cornish game hen - Garlic and rosemary grilled Cornish game hen
Where to Buy Cornish Game Hen
Cornish game hen can be found at most grocery stores or specialty meat markets. You can also purchase it online from various retailers. When shopping for Cornish game hen, look for hens that have clear skin, no discoloration, and no unpleasant odors. Fresh Cornish game hen should be pink and firm to the touch.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cornish Game Hen
1. How many calories are in a cooked Cornish Game Hen?
A 1-1/4 lb cooked Cornish Game Hen without bones and with skin eaten contains 793 calories.
2. How do I cook a Cornish Game Hen?
There are many ways to cook a Cornish Game Hen, including roasting, grilling, and frying. You can season it with herbs, garlic, lemon or other flavors depending on your preference.
3. How many servings does a Cornish Game Hen provide?
A 1-1/4 lb Cornish Game Hen is typically one serving for an average adult. However, it can be shared between two people if the portion sizes are small.
4. Is Cornish Game Hen healthy?
Cornish Game Hen is a good source of protein and can be a healthy addition to your diet if prepared without added fats and sodium. However, it is high in cholesterol and should be consumed in moderation.
5. How do I know if the Cornish Game Hen is fully cooked?
You can check if the Cornish Game Hen is fully cooked by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the bird. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).