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Spice-Roasted Cornish Hens with Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce

4.6

(26)

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Spice-Roasted Cornish Hens with Cucumber-Yogurt SauceElinor Carucci

The hens roast in about half the time it takes to cook a whole chicken. Offer wilted spinach alongside.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

3 1 1/4 to 1 1/2-pound Cornish game hens, split lengthwise
1 tablespoon cumin seeds
1 tablespoon coriander seeds
1 3/4 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil
1/2 10-ounce cucumber, peeled, cubed
1/2 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
12 fresh cilantro sprigs
4 garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons sour cream

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Position rack in top third of oven; preheat to 450°F. Arrange hens, skin side up, on large rimmed baking sheet. Finely grind cumin and next 3 ingredients in spice mill.

    Step 2

    Brush hens with oil. Sprinkle on both sides with spice mixture. Roast hens until cooked through, about 35 minutes.

    Step 3

    Meanwhile, combine all remaining ingredients in processor. Blend until almost smooth. Season sauce with salt and pepper.

    Step 4

    Place hens on plates. Serve with sauce.

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