As we get ready for Valentine's Day its a good idea to try out a few recipes you might not have prepared before so you are sure the meal will be a success. While this recipe requires marinating overnight, this is an easy, seductive recipe where pomegranate juice adds flavor and color to these spicy, honey-kissed holiday hens.


Honey Roasted Game Hens with Pomegranates
recipe from the Pomegranate Council -- serves 6

• 1 cup fresh pomegranate juice
• 1/2 cup and 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 6 cloves garlic, smashed
• 3 game hens, split in half
• Salt and Pepper
• Pomegranate seeds for garnish
• Chopped, roasted pistachio nuts for garnish

1. To make 1 cup of juice, put 1-1/2 to 2 cups of seeds in a blender; blend until liquefied. Pour mixture through a cheesecloth-lined strainer or sieve.
2. Mix pomegranate juice, 1/2 cup honey, and next 5 ingredients; pour over hens. Marinate, covered, overnight or at least 8 hours in the refrigerator. Turn occasionally.
3. Drain hens, reserving marinade. Simmer marinade, covered for 10 minutes; reserve.
   
4. Season hens with salt and pepper. Bake at 450 degrees F, basting frequently with reserved marinade, until hens are just firm to the touch, about 25 minutes.
   
5. Remove from oven; let rest covered with a tea towel for 5 minutes. Brush each half with 1/2 tablespoon honey. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped pistachios.