Spice-Roasted Cornish Hens With Cucumber-Yogurt Sauce

Ingredients

• 3 Cornish hens, split lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon cumin seed
• 1 tablespoon coriander seed
• 1 3/4 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• olive oil
• 5 ounces cucumbers, peeled, cubed
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 12 fresh fresh cilantro stems
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled
• 2 tablespoons sour cream

Directions

1. 1

   Position rack in top third of oven; preheat to 450°F

2. 2

   Arrange hens, skin side up, on large rimmed baking sheet.

3. 3

   Finely grind cumin and next 3 ingredients in spice mill.

4. 4

   Brush hens with oil.

5. 5

   Sprinkle on both sides with spice mixture.

6. 6

   Roast hens until cooked through, about 35 minutes.

7. 7

   Meanwhile, combine all remaining ingredients in processor.

8. 8

   Blend until almost smooth.

9. 9

   Season sauce with salt and pepper.