Stove Top Smoker Rock Cornish Game Hens Calvados: A Normandy-Inspired Feast

The first time I tasted Calvados, I was nestled in a cozy Norman bistro, the air thick with the scent of woodsmoke and apples. An old woman, her face etched with the wisdom of generations, poured me a generous glass of the amber liquid. As I savored the warm, fruity notes, a plate of perfectly roasted game hen arrived, glistening with a Calvados-infused glaze. That moment, that perfect marriage of smoke, apple, and brandy, ignited a passion for rustic French flavors that has stayed with me ever since. This recipe is my humble attempt to recreate that magic, using the ingenious simplicity of a stove top smoker.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 2 Rock Cornish game hens
• 1 cup Calvados, divided
• 2 tablespoons apple wood chips
• 2 small Granny Smith apples, skinned and sliced very thin
• 1/4 cup butter

Equipment Needed

• Stove top smoker
• Large saucepan
• Sharp knife or kitchen shears

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the Rock Cornish game hens. Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, split the hens open along the back. Carefully remove the backbones. You can reserve the backbones and giblets for making stock, if desired.
2. In a large bowl or resealable bag, marinate the hens in 3/4 cup of Calvados for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more infused with flavor they become.
3. While the hens are marinating, prepare your stove top smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this involves placing apple wood chips in the bottom of the smoker. Make sure the smoker is well-ventilated.
4. Carefully remove the marinated hens from the Calvados, discarding the marinade. Pat the hens dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely in the smoker.
5. Place the hens inside the stove top smoker, breast side up.
6. Cover the smoker and place it over medium-high heat on your stovetop.
7. Smoke the hens for approximately 1 hour, or until they are thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. The exact cooking time will depend on your stove top smoker and the size of the hens. Monitor the smoker’s temperature and adjust the heat as needed to maintain a consistent smoking environment.
8. While the hens are smoking, prepare the apple compote. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
9. Add the thinly sliced Granny Smith apples to the melted butter and sauté them until they are tender and lightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
10. Once the hens are cooked through, carefully remove them from the stove top smoker.
11. Add the smoked hens to the saucepan with the sautéed apples.
12. Pour the remaining 1/4 cup of Calvados over the hens and apples.
13. Carefully flame the Calvados using a long match or lighter. The alcohol will ignite, creating a dramatic flambé. Be extremely cautious during this step and ensure you have adequate ventilation. Allow the flames to subside before proceeding.
14. Serve the hens immediately on a bed of the sautéed apple slices.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Brining: For extra juicy hens, consider brining them for a few hours before marinating. A simple brine of salt, sugar, and water will work wonders.
• Apple Variety: While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor.
• Smoker Temperature: Maintaining a consistent smoker temperature is key. Use a thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the smoker and adjust the heat accordingly.
• Doneness Check: A meat thermometer is your best friend. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, to ensure the hens are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the thigh with a fork; the juices should run clear, not pink.
• Preventing Flare-Ups: When flambéing, be prepared for potential flare-ups. Keep a lid handy to smother the flames if they become too intense.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Stove Top Smoker Rock Cornish Game Hens Calvados immediately while the apples are warm and the smoky aroma is still lingering. The presentation is just as important as the taste! Arrange the sautéed apples artfully on a platter and place the hens on top. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the hens and apples in a skillet over medium heat, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	927 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	70 g	108%
Saturated Fat	28 g	138%
Cholesterol	398 mg	133%
Sodium	329 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	15 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	3 g	11%
Sugars	11 g	N/A
Protein	58 g	116%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Bourbon Instead of Calvados: If you don’t have Calvados on hand, you can substitute it with bourbon or another apple brandy. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but still delicious.
• Different Wood Chips: Experiment with different types of wood chips for a unique smoky flavor. Hickory or mesquite would be interesting alternatives.
• Add Herbs: Infuse the apple compote with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Accompaniment: Serve the hens with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use chicken instead of Cornish game hens?
A: While you can use chicken, the cooking time will need to be adjusted significantly. Cornish game hens are smaller and cook much faster.

Q: Do I need a special stove top smoker for this recipe?
A: Yes, a stove top smoker is essential for achieving the smoky flavor. There are many affordable options available online or at kitchen supply stores.

Q: Can I marinate the hens overnight?
A: Yes, you can marinate the hens overnight in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor.

Q: What if I don’t want to flame the Calvados?
A: You can skip the flaming step if you prefer. Simply add the Calvados to the pan and simmer for a few minutes to reduce it slightly.

Q: How do I know when the hens are done?
A: The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

Final Thoughts

This Stove Top Smoker Rock Cornish Game Hens Calvados recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of Normandy into your own kitchen. The combination of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors is truly irresistible. Don’t be intimidated by the stove top smoker; it’s a surprisingly simple and versatile tool. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your feedback! Pair it with a crisp glass of cider or a dry white wine for a truly memorable meal. Bon appétit!