Ingredients

12 tablespoons schmaltz ( rendered chicken fat ) or 12 tablespoons peanut oil
kosher salt , to taste
fresh ground pepper , to taste
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
4 cups yellow onions , chopped
1 teaspoon clove
3 cups canned diced plum tomatoes , with the juices reserved
3 1/2 cups dried apricots , soaked in hot water for 1 hour and drained
2 cups chicken stock or 2 cups water
1/3 cup brown sugar
Cornish Hens with Apricots, Tomatoes, and Spice is a traditional Moroccan recipe that has been adapted by Joyce Goldstein and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This dish is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it an excellent option for guests who are looking to try something different. The apricots provide a unique sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory spices and tender Cornish hens. It is an easy recipe to make and is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2.In a large bowl, combine schmaltz or peanut oil, kosher salt, ground pepper, ground cinnamon and clove.
3.Add chopped onions and mix well.
4.Add diced plum tomatoes with reserved juices, drained soaked dried apricots, chicken stock or water and brown sugar, stir to combine.
5.Stuff the mixture into the cavities of the Cornish hens and truss.
6.Place Cornish hens in a baking pan or casserole.
7.Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
8.Remove foil and continue baking, basting occasionally, until the hens are brown and the juices run clear.
9.Remove from the oven and let the hens rest for 10 minutes before serving.
10.

PROS

This dish is packed with flavor and is also visually stunning.
The sweetness of the apricots contrasts beautifully with the savory spices and tender Cornish hens for a dish that is sure to impress.

This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal as it has a unique combination of both sweet and savory flavors.

CONS

Cooking Cornish hens can be a bit daunting and requires a little extra preparation time.

This recipe calls for schmaltz which may not be readily available in your pantry if you don’t usually cook with it.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Apricots are a great source of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and potassium. They also contain antioxidants that may help to reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Cornish hens are a lean source of protein compared to other meats such as beef or pork. They are also low in saturated fat, which makes them a good option for those watching their cholesterol and caloric intake.

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