Easy As Pie! How To Cook Tender And Juicy Cornish Hens In Your Nuwave Oven

Cornish hens, with their tender meat and exquisite flavor, are a culinary delight that can elevate any dining experience. While there are numerous methods to cook these delectable birds, the NuWave oven offers a unique and effortless approach, promising succulent results with minimal effort. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions and expert tips to master the art of cooking Cornish hens in your NuWave oven, ensuring a delectable and unforgettable meal.

Preparing Your Cornish Hens

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, it’s essential to prepare your Cornish hens to perfection. Here’s how:

1. Select the Finest Hens: Choose plump and well-proportioned Cornish hens with a weight between 1.5 and 2 pounds. Fresh or frozen hens are suitable, but if using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking.
2. Season Liberally: Season the hens generously with salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices that tickle your fancy. Thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder are excellent choices.
3. Brush with Olive Oil: Brush the hens with olive oil to enhance their flavor and prevent them from drying out.

Setting Up Your NuWave Oven

The NuWave oven is an innovative kitchen appliance that utilizes infrared heat technology to cook food quickly and evenly. Here’s how to set it up for Cornish hens:

1. Place the Oven on a Heat-Resistant Surface: Position the NuWave oven on a heat-resistant surface, such as a countertop or stovetop.
2. Insert the Cooking Tray: Insert the cooking tray into the oven and place the roasting rack on top.
3. Adjust the Temperature: Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Roasting the Cornish Hens

With the oven ready, it’s time to roast the Cornish hens to perfection:

1. Place the Hens on the Roasting Rack: Carefully place the seasoned Cornish hens on the roasting rack, breast side up.
2. Cook for 30 Minutes: Roast the hens for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit when measured with a meat thermometer.
3. Monitor Regularly: Check the hens periodically to ensure they are cooking evenly and not burning.

Basting and Glazing

To enhance the flavor and moisture of the Cornish hens, consider basting and glazing them during the roasting process:

1. Basting: Every 10-15 minutes, remove the hens from the oven and baste them with the juices that have accumulated in the cooking tray. This helps keep them moist and flavorful.
2. Glazing: For a touch of sweetness and shine, brush the hens with a glaze made from honey, maple syrup, or fruit preserves.

Carving and Serving

Once the Cornish hens are cooked, allow them to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

1. Carve the Hens: Using a sharp knife, carefully carve the hens into portions.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the Cornish hens hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad.

Tips for Perfect Cornish Hens

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the hens are cooked to the correct internal temperature.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Oven: Cook only one or two Cornish hens at a time to ensure even cooking.
3. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the hens. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to create unique flavor profiles.
5. Rest Before Carving: Allow the hens to rest before carving to retain their juices.

The Art of Roasting: A Culinary Canvas

Cooking Cornish hens in a NuWave oven is an art form that allows you to create culinary masterpieces with ease. By following these simple steps and embracing the tips provided, you can transform ordinary Cornish hens into extraordinary delights that will impress your family and guests alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I cook frozen Cornish hens in the NuWave oven? Yes, you can cook frozen Cornish hens in the NuWave oven. However, you will need to increase the cooking time by 20-25%.
2. What is the best way to season Cornish hens? The best way to season Cornish hens is with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Some popular seasonings include thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. How do I know when the Cornish hens are done cooking? The Cornish hens are done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit when measured with a meat thermometer.
4. What should I serve with Cornish hens? Cornish hens pair well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and salads.
5. Can I use the NuWave oven to cook other types of poultry? Yes, you can use the NuWave oven to cook other types of poultry, such as chicken, turkey, and duck.