Lemon-roasted Cornish Hens

== Description ==
Cornish hens rubbed with fresh mint and served with a lemon-seasoned sauce. 
* Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
* Source: Southern Living Holiday Meals 1982 
* Yield: 4 servings
== Ingredients ==
* 4 (1¼ pound) Cornish hens
* 1 lemon
* 3 tablespoons butter, softened
* 2 teaspoons chopped fresh mint
* 1 teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon pepper
* 1 small onion, sliced
* 1 clove garlic, crushed
* 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
* 1 cup chicken broth
* ¼ cup lemon juice
* 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 teaspoons water
* chopped fresh mint
* watercress (optional) 
== Directions ==
# Remove the giblets from hens, reserve for another use.
# Rinse hens with cold water, and pat dry.
# Grate enough lemon zest to equal 1 teaspoon, cut remaining rind into thin strips, and set aside.
# Combine lemon rind, butter, 2 teaspoons chopped mint, salt and pepper.
# Rub mixture over hens.
# Place hens breast side up in a shallow baking pan.
# Bake at 375°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes, basting hens every 15 minutes with pan drippings.
# Saute reserved lemon rind strips, onion and garlic in oil 5 minutes.
# Combine broth, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan; stir well.
# Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sauce is thickened.
# Stir in sauteed mixture and serve sauce over hens.
# Sprinkle with chopped fresh mint and garnish with watercress, if desired.
Category:Cathy's Recipes
Category:Chicken stock and broth Recipes
Category:Cornish hen Recipes
Category:Lemon Recipes
Category:Lemon juice Recipes