Indulge in the unique, mouthwatering combination of drunken bacon cornish hens with this easy-to-follow recipe. These succulent hens are wrapped in crispy bacon, marinated in a flavorful dry rub, and cooked to perfection with the help of beer cans. This recipe will elevate your cooking game and impress your dinner guests.
Key Takeaways:
- Drunken bacon cornish hens are a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
- Marinating the hens in a dry rub and using beer cans for support adds flavor and juiciness.
- Stuffed variations of cornish hens can include a mix of vegetables for added taste.
- Serve the hens with a sauce made from the drippings for an extra burst of flavor.
- Enjoy this delightful dish as a main course for a special occasion or a weeknight treat.
How to Make Drunken Bacon Cornish Hens
To create the perfect drunken bacon cornish hens, follow these simple instructions. Start by marinating the hens in a flavorful dry rub of your choice. This will help infuse the meat with delicious flavors and ensure a juicy end result. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and really massage the rub into the hens.
Next, it’s time to prop up the hens with half-full cans of beer. This not only adds moisture to the cooking process but also imparts a unique flavor. The beer cans act as a natural stand, keeping the hens upright while they cook on the grill. Make sure to use a sturdy beer can holder or create your own using aluminum foil if needed.
Grilling the hens is the final step in this mouthwatering recipe. Aim for a medium heat and place the hens on the grill, ensuring they are stable on the beer cans. Close the lid and let them cook until the internal temperature reaches 180°F. This ensures that the hens are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Pro Tip:
For an extra flavor boost, consider wrapping the hens with bacon slices before grilling. This adds a delicious smoky taste that complements the tender meat perfectly.
Once the hens are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy bite every time! Serve the drunken bacon cornish hens with your favorite side dishes and sauces to complete the meal.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – Cornish hens | 1. Prepare a dry rub of your choice. 2. Massage the dry rub onto the hens. 3. Prop up the hens on half-full beer cans. 4. Grill the hens until the internal temperature reaches 180°F. 5. Let the hens rest for a few minutes before serving. |
| – Dry rub of your choice | |
| – Beer cans | |
| – Bacon slices (optional) |
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Elevate your culinary experience by exploring different variations and serving suggestions for drunken bacon cornish hens. This versatile recipe allows for creative additions and modifications to suit your taste preferences.
One variation of the recipe involves stuffing the cornish hens with a delectable mixture of mushrooms, onions, carrots, and peas before roasting them in the oven. The combination of flavors from the savory stuffing and the juicy hens creates a truly mouthwatering dish. The hens can be basted with the drippings during cooking to enhance the flavors even further.
For a twist on presentation, you can serve the drunken bacon cornish hens with a delicious sauce made from the cooking drippings. The sauce adds an extra layer of richness and complements the flavors of the hens perfectly. You can also consider accompanying the dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to add a refreshing element to the meal.
If you’re looking to create the best drunken bacon cornish hens recipe, consider experimenting with different seasonings and herbs. Adding spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or thyme can add depth and complexity to the flavors. You can also try marinating the hens in a different type of alcohol, such as whiskey or wine, to create unique flavor profiles.
FAQ
Can I use other types of beer for the Drunken Bacon Cornish Hens recipe?
Absolutely! While the original recipe suggests using beer, you can experiment with different flavors and types of beer to add your own unique twist to the dish.
How long should I marinate the hens in the dry rub?
It is recommended to marinate the hens in the dry rub for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination can also intensify the flavors even further.
Can I substitute bacon with another type of meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different type of meat, such as prosciutto or pancetta, feel free to experiment and find the flavor combination that suits your taste buds best.
Can I make the Drunken Bacon Cornish Hens recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can still achieve delicious results by roasting the hens in the oven. Simply follow the same marinating and propping steps, but adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
What are some suggested side dishes to serve with Drunken Bacon Cornish Hens?
Some delicious side dish options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. These dishes complement the flavors of the hens and create a well-rounded meal.
How do I know when the hens are fully cooked?
It is important to cook the hens until the internal temperature reaches 180°F. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine if the hens are fully cooked and safe to eat.
