pomegranate-honey roasted game hen

MAKES: 6 servings

Ingredients

1 cup fresh pomegranate juice
½ cup honey, plus extra
6 cloves garlic, pressed
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 game hens, 2 to 3 pounds each, cut in half
Salt and freshly ground pepper
Pomegranate seeds for garnish
Shelled, chopped pistachios for garnish

Instructions

Mix the pomegranate juice, honey, garlic and spices, and pour over the hens in a bowl or baking dish. Cover and marinate overnight in the refrigerator, turning occasionally.

Preheat the oven to 450º.

Drain the hens, and transfer the marinade to a saucepan. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.

Season the hens with salt and pepper, transfer to a roasting pan, and place n the oven. Baste frequently with the cooked marinade until the hens are cooked through, about 25 minutes. Remove from the oven, and let rest for 5 minutes.

Drizzle with honey and the remaining pan sauce, and garnish with pomegranate seeds, and pistachios.