Cornish Hen

(Soy and Vinegar Marinated Cornish Hens)

The hens should marinate at least 12 hours, so begin preparing a day before serving.

Steamed broccoli and baked sweet potatoes are tasty accompaniments. Top slices of fruitcake with vanilla ice cream for dessert.

For some appropriate side dishes, dress shredded carrots with a cumin, cilantro and lemon vinaigrette, and add almonds and raisins to couscous. Top it all off with pistachio ice cream and mint tea.

Although most of the molasses imported by the Colonies in the seventeenth century was used to make rum, some found its way into the kitchen. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve these festive birds with roasted broccoli (as easy as steamed) and a wild rice pilaf with sliced green onions. Finish with caramel ice cream topped with chocolate sauce and chopped walnuts.

The following recipe is our version of gai yang, the grilled or roasted marinated chicken for which there are many variations in Thailand. Although gai yang is traditionally served with only a sweet chili garlic sauce for dipping, we were so taken with the complex flavor of the marinade that we decided to make extra and turn it into a second dipping sauce. Both sauces offered here are simple and delicious, but the Cornish hens can easily stand on their own.

Serve with: Orzo tossed with fresh oregano and green onions, and buttered carrots.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Steam broccoli spears, then grill them alongside the hen. Couscous and a cucumber and yogurt salad complete the main course. For dessert, sprinkle raspberries and sliced nectarines with some sugar and a few toasted almonds.