If so, subscribe to his newsletter. Click here to read reviews of Sam's newest book. As a stuffing, figs add a wonderful, exotic flavor to small birds. Poussin are baby chickens, about a pound. They're quite delicious but expensive.
Cornish hens are a worthy substitute but run a little larger.
If using Cornish hens, adjust cooking time accordingly. In a small bowl mix allspice with Port. Put figs in a zip-lock bag, add marinade, close, shake back and forth a few times and marinate 1 hour. Put salt in a shallow roasting pan just large enough to hold all the hens without crowding. Season cavity with salt and pepper and stuff with drained figs.