Rice And Barley Stuffing For Cornish Hens

Servings: 2 cups Difficulty: Intermediate
A savory-sweet international stuffing blending grains, herbs, and cranberries
Rice and Barley Stuffing for Cornish Hens recipe image

Rice And Barley Stuffing For Cornish Hens

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 2 cups Calories: 852.9

Description

This distinctive stuffing combines the earthiness of barley and the fluffiness of rice with bright bursts of cranberry and orange. The mix of sweet marmalade, tart cranberries, and aromatic herbs like sage, tarragon, and rosemary creates a complex flavor profile that complements the mild meat of Cornish hens perfectly. Ideal for holiday feasts or special dinner parties, this stuffing offers a delightful textural contrast and a balance of sweet and savory notes. It is a reliable, home-style dish that brings an international flair to your table, using simple ingredients to create a memorable culinary experience.

Directions

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the rice and brown it lightly in the butter, stirring frequently.
  3. Add 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups of water and one chicken broth cube to the rice.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the rice is soft and liquid is absorbed.
  5. In a separate saucepan, combine the barley, 1 cup of water, and the second chicken broth cube.
  6. Cook the barley for 45 minutes, or until tender, adding more water if needed.
  7. If using fresh cranberries, cook them briefly with the sugar and a little water to soften and create a juice.
  8. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, cooked barley, raisins, canned cranberry sauce, orange juice, marmalade, sage, tarragon, marjoram, rosemary, and fresh cranberry mixture.
  9. Season the stuffing mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Stuff the Cornish hens with the rice and barley mixture.
  11. Brush the outside of the hens with melted butter and sprinkle with additional salt, pepper, crushed basil, and tarragon if desired.
  12. Roast the hens according to package instructions or until cooked through.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2 cups


Amount Per Serving
Calories 852.9kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 13.6g21%
Saturated Fat 5.7g29%
Cholesterol 60.6mg21%
Sodium 100.1mg5%
Total Carbohydrate 174.0g58%
Dietary Fiber 7.7g31%
Sugars 148.2g
Protein 16.2g33%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: barley, stuffing, cornish hen, rice, cranberries, herbs, savory, holiday, thanksgiving, side dish, orange, sage, tarragon, rosemary, marjoram, marmalade, raisins, chicken broth, international
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious