Cornish Game Hen Flambe("An Elegant Dinner - Easy")
Elevate your dinner with succulent Cornish game hens wrapped in crispy bacon and flambéed with Grand Marnier for an elegant, flavorful experience. Perfect for special occasions or refined gatherings, this dish combines savory, citrus, and smoky notes for a memorable meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove giblets from the Cornish game hens and discard.
- Season the inside of each hen with salt and pepper.
- Cut the bacon strips in half and lay them across the hens.
- Cook the hens until the bacon is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
- Pour Grand Marnier over the hens and carefully ignite to flambé, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more pronounced flavor, consider marinating the Cornish game hens in the Grand Marnier for a few hours before cooking. If you want a less fatty dish, you can substitute turkey bacon for the regular bacon. Also, ensure that you have a fire extinguisher handy when flambéing, as safety is paramount.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the flambéed Cornish game hens with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a Light Summer Casserole. A crisp white wine complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the flavors of the Grand Marnier.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish game hen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the hen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Game Hen Flambe("An Elegant Dinner - Easy") contains roughly 15 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1751mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of liquor for flambéing?
Yes, you can use other high-proof liquors such as rum or bourbon if Grand Marnier isn't available. Just ensure they have a high alcohol content for a successful flambé. The flavor will vary slightly, so choose one that complements the dish.
Is flambéing safe, and what precautions should I take?
Flambéing is safe when done carefully. Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby and avoid flammable items in the kitchen. Use a long lighter to ignite the alcohol, and never pour liquor directly from the bottle into the pan to prevent flare-ups.
What sides pair well with Cornish game hens?
Cornish game hens pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving with roasted seasonal vegetables or a light grain salad. For a heartier option, mashed potatoes or a warm bread roll can complement the dish nicely, making it a complete meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).