Ingredients

1 large orange , thinly sliced
2 Cornish hens
6 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro , divided
8 garlic cloves , finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons cumin , divided
1 cup tawny port
1 cup sherry wine
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar ( balsamic preferred ) or 1/4 cup red wine vinegar ( balsamic preferred )
2 tablespoons honey , to taste
20 whole pitted dates ( or more to taste )
10 large green pitted olives ( or more to taste )
salt & freshly ground black pepper , to taste
1 teaspoon butter , for sauce ( optional )
Moroccan Style Balsamic Cornish Game Hens are a unique dinner entree that combines traditional Moroccan flavors with contemporary ingredients. Cornish game hens are seasoned with cumin, honey, and balsamic vinegar and stuffed with dates and olives which create a complex set of flavors that simply delicious. The orange slices add a zesty touch that balances the dish perfectly. The butter remaining in the pan served over the game hens completes this Middle Eastern culinary masterpiece.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2.Place orange slices in an ovenproof dish.
3.In a bowl, combine 4 tablespoons cilantro, garlic, 1 teaspoon cumin, port, sherry, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Stir well.
4.Generously salt and pepper hens inside and out.
5.Stuff each hen with a few dates and olives and tie legs together with twine.
6.Pour the sauce mixture over the hens and place them on top of the orange slices.
7.Roast in the oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
8.Baste frequently and add a little water if necessary.
9.Mix the optional butter with the sauce remaining in the pan.
10.Garnish with remaining cilantro to serve.

PROS

Moroccan Style Balsamic Cornish Game Hens present a unique and exotic flavor that is not found in most typical dinner entrees.

The blend of dates, olives, and orange slices creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.

CONS

The ingredients used for the recipe may not be readily available in all grocery stores, which may make the preparation process challenging for some people.

It requires more time and attention to detail than a typical dinner recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is high in protein, which is essential for the growth and repair of muscles and tissues.
The dates are a good source of fiber, which helps improve digestion and bowel health.
The olives provide healthful monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce heart disease risk.

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