Lemon-roasted Cornish Hens

Description
Cornish hens rubbed with fresh mint and served with a lemon-seasoned sauce.
 * Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
 * Source: Southern Living Holiday Meals 1982
 * Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

 * 4 (1¼ pound) Cornish hens
 * 1 lemon
 * 3 tablespoons butter, softened
 * 2 teaspoons chopped fresh mint
 * 1 teaspoon salt
 * ¼ teaspoon pepper
 * 1 small onion, sliced
 * 1 clove garlic, crushed
 * 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
 * 1 cup chicken broth
 * ¼ cup lemon juice
 * 1½ tablespoons cornstarch
 * 2 teaspoons water
 * chopped fresh mint
 * watercress (optional)

Directions

 * 1) Remove the giblets from hens, reserve for another use.
 * 2) Rinse hens with cold water, and pat dry.
 * 3) Grate enough lemon zest to equal 1 teaspoon, cut remaining rind into thin strips, and set aside.
 * 4) Combine lemon rind, butter, 2 teaspoons chopped mint, salt and pepper.
 * 5) Rub mixture over hens.
 * 6) Place hens breast side up in a shallow baking pan.
 * 7) Bake at 375°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes, basting hens every 15 minutes with pan drippings.
 * 8) Saute reserved lemon rind strips, onion and garlic in oil 5 minutes.
 * 9) Combine broth, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water in a small saucepan; stir well.
 * 10) Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sauce is thickened.
 * 11) Stir in sauteed mixture and serve sauce over hens.
 * 12) Sprinkle with chopped fresh mint and garnish with watercress, if desired.