Cornish Game Hen & Apple Cider Casserole

Ingredients (Serves 2-3)

• 1 small Cornish game hen (about 1–1.5 lbs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large apple (Granny Smith or Bramley), peeled and sliced

• 1/2 cup apple cider (or dry white cider)

• 1/2 cup chicken stock

• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

• 1/2 tsp ground allspice

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Hen:

   • Pat the Cornish game hen dry and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and allspice.

2. Sear the Hen:

   • Heat olive oil in the Nutri-Stahl 3 QT over medium-high heat.

   • Brown the hen on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics:

   • In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

4. Add Apples & Liquids:

   • Stir in apple slices, then pour in apple cider and chicken stock.

   • Add thyme, adjust salt and pepper.

5. Cook the Hen:

   • Return the hen to the pot, cover with the lid, and reduce heat to low.

   • Simmer gently for 35–40 minutes, until the hen is cooked through (internal temp 165°F) and the apples are tender.

6. Finish with Cranberries:

   • Stir in dried cranberries and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes to plump them up.

7. Serve:

   • Transfer the hen to a plate, spoon the apple-cider-cream sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley.

   • Serve alongside mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a fully exotic British experience.