This is my great-aunt Delia’s famous New Year’s Day main dish, with notes for a cheaper version that my mom made most Sundays. It is so good that my sibs and I would fight (literally) over the last bits of rice clinging to the pan! Don’t be tempted to replace the butter with margarine–this is a holiday meal, after all, and you just don’t skimp for holidays! Also, don’t forget to dry the poultry. If you don’t, the butter won’t stick to the skin and help crisp and flavor it. Oh, and canned mushrooms work fine instead of fresh.
The original version of this recipe was found at British Express. I have increased the amount of salt and pepper for better flavors. The amount of seasonings with the combination of these ingredients is what makes this pastie so good.
This game hen will make you feel like you are celebrating a holiday, but it is a bird to enjoy any time of the year.
Another fabulous recipe from Mary Nell Reck’s weekly cooking lesson in the Houston Post. This one came out in February of 1989 and is a recipe from Johnny Carrabba, chef and owner of Carrabba’s Restaurant here in Houston, way back when there was only the original restaurant. The Cornish hens may be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to grill.
When company comes, I want to serve something delicious and quick because there is nothing more horrible than spending your “visiting time” in the kitchen. Most of this dish can be prepared ahead of time and when your company gets there, finished in under 30 minutes. That will give you time to say your hellos, show them where the bathroom is, and have a drink or two, if you want.
