Vietnamese Grilled Hens
Vietnamese Grilled Hens feature tender Cornish game hens marinated in a vibrant blend of ginger, scallions, and spices, perfect for flavorful grilling and pairing with dry white wines.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the hens into halves.
- Mix together the chopped scallions, grated ginger, sweet sherry, soy sauce, turmeric, fresh ground pepper, and grated lemon rind.
- Rub the marinade all over the hen halves.
- Let the hens marinate for a few hours, turning them regularly.
- Grill the hens over charcoal or oak until cooked through and nicely charred.
- Serve with a dry Gewurztraminer or dry Riesling.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even more flavorful marinade, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of chili flakes for heat. If Cornish game hens are unavailable, you can substitute with small fryers or split chickens. To enhance the char on the grill, soak some wood chips in water for a few hours and add them to the coals for a smoky flavor. For a lighter option, try pairing this dish with a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled hens alongside jasmine rice or a fresh herb salad to complement the flavors. A dry Gewurztraminer or dry Riesling pairs beautifully with the spices in the dish. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled vegetables or a light dipping sauce to enhance the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled hens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hen halves in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vietnamese Grilled Hens contains roughly 410 calories, with 19g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (109% of the Daily Value), iron (97% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 marinate the hens overnight?
Yes, marinating the hens overnight will deepen the flavors significantly. Just ensure they are covered well to prevent drying out in the refrigerator. It's a great way to save time on the day you plan to grill them.
What can I serve with Vietnamese grilled hens?
In addition to rice or salad, you could serve steamed bok choy or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. A light dipping sauce made with lime juice and fish sauce could also enhance the dish's flavor profile.
Can I use a different cooking method besides grilling?
Absolutely! If grilling isn't an option, you can roast the hen halves in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Just be sure to baste them with the marinade periodically for added flavor.
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).