Smoked Game Hen

Smoked Game Hen is a flavorful and succulent dish that brings the rich essence of American BBQ to your table. Perfectly seasoned and smoked, this dish is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal that satisfies cravings without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• Cornish game hens - 2
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic powder - 1 teaspoon
• Onion powder - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Dried thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Sea salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Apple cider vinegar - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 1 liter for brining
• Wood chips (hickory or apple) - 1 cup for smoking

Steps

1. Brine the game hens by mixing water and sea salt in a bowl. Submerge the hens in the brine solution and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Preheat your smoker to 120°C (250°F) and soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the hens from the brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar to create a marinade.
5. Rub the marinade all over the game hens, ensuring they are well-coated.
6. Place the game hens breast side up on the smoker rack and add the soaked wood chips to the smoker.
7. Smoke the hens for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
8. Once cooked, remove the game hens from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 40 g
• Carbs: 2 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 120 mg
• Total Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium.

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