Valentine's Day Cornish Game Hen With Kasha Stuffing Recipe

Rub birds inside and out with lemon and sprinkle well with salt and freshly ground pepper.

Preheat oven (450 degrees F.).

For Kasha Stuffing: Mix the groats with beaten egg; add to frying pan over high heat. Stir constantly until grains separate, then add the boiling water. Cover pan, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, fry the bacon in another large frying pan. When bacon is lightly browned, push to one side and add the butter. Let this sizzle and add onion, garlic, green pepper, and mushrooms; stir constantly. Add oregano, sage, and salt and pepper. Reduce heat and add the cooked groats. Mix well, adjust seasoning, and remove from heat.

Fill hen cavities with the Kasha stuffing. Close opening with skewers. Place birds, breast side up, on rack in open roasting pan and cover breasts with bacon. Cook for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 325 degrees F. and add red wine. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, basting often (like every 15 minutes, if possible); add more wine if necessary.

Cook's Note: Kasha is frequently called buckwheat groats. It is made from buckwheat grain and then roasted, which gives it a delicious nut-like flavor. Aside from being a tasty stuffing for poultry, this recipe makes an excellent side dish in place of rice, potatoes, or noodles.