cornish hen brine recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
cornish hen brine recipe
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The Best cornish hen brine recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Cornish hen brine recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a delicious meal for the week, this recipe is sure to please. I love how moist and flavorful the chicken turns out after being marinated in this brine solution.

It’s really easy to make and requires minimal effort, which is great for busy weeknights or special events. My kids absolutely love it when I serve this dish, and it’s always a hit with our friends and family too.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy, with all the benefits of salt-free brining and a balanced mix of herbs and spices. We like to serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

I’ve even used this brine on other types of poultry, like turkey or duck, with amazing results. The key to this recipe is making sure the chicken is completely submerged in the brine solution, which ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.

With its rich history dating back to medieval England, Cornish hens have become a popular choice for home cooks everywhere due to their tender meat and versatility in recipes like this one.

Classic Cornish Hen Brine

Classic Cornish Hen Brine

4.9 from 1132 votes

This brine recipe ensures your Cornish hens stay moist and flavorful during roasting. The combination of salt, sugar, and aromatics infuses the meat with a subtle savory taste.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 10 mins (includes brining time)
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 50 kcal (for brine, negligible per serving)

🥘Ingredients

For the Brine

4 cups water
1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 lemon, sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, combine 4 cups of water, kosher salt, and granulated sugar.
2Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3Remove the pot from the heat and add the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, fresh rosemary sprigs, fresh thyme sprigs, and lemon slices.
4Stir gently to combine the aromatics with the brine.
5Allow the brine to cool completely to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
6You can speed this up by placing the pot in an ice bath and stirring occasionally until the liquid is cool to the touch.
7Place the Cornish hens in a large bowl or container and pour the cooled brine over them, ensuring they are fully submerged.
8Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but no longer than 8 hours, for best flavor and texture.
9After brining, remove the hens from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels.
10Discard the brine and proceed with your preferred roasting recipe.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Whisk
Large bowl or container for brining
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 50 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 14180mg🌾Total Carbs: 13g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For a stronger flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a cinnamon stick to the brine. Make sure the brine is completely cool before adding the hens to avoid cooking them.

Watch Video Of How Classic Cornish Hen Brine Works

This Cornish hen brine recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a delicious meal for the week.

The key to success lies in making sure the chicken is completely submerged in the brine solution and letting it soak long enough for maximum flavor absorption.

You can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cornish Hen Brine

1. What is Cornish hen brine?

Cornish hen brine is a marinade solution made from a combination of water, salt (or alternative seasonings), sugar, herbs, and spices that helps to tenderize and add flavor to the meat.

2. Is Cornish hen brine safe for people with high blood pressure?

The traditional Cornish hen brine recipe contains high amounts of salt, which can be problematic for individuals with hypertension or other heart conditions.

3. Can I use this recipe on other types of poultry?

Yes, you can use this brine solution on other types of poultry like turkey or duck.

4. How long does it take for the chicken to absorb all the flavors from the brine?

The longer you let the chicken soak in the brine solution, the more flavorful it will be.

5. Can I adjust the amount of herbs and spices in this recipe?

You can adjust the amount of herbs and spices according to your personal taste preferences.

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