Yield: 24 servings.

1 quart pomegranate juice
2 3/4 cups honey, divided
2 tsp. ground coriander
2 tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. cayenne pepper
24 cloves garlic, smashed
12 game hens, split in half
as needed, salt
as needed, pepper
for garnish, pomegranate seeds
for garnish, pistachio nuts, chopped and roasted

Mix pomegranate juice, 2 cups honey and next 5 ingredients; pour over hens. Marinate overnight or at least 8 hours, refrigerated, turning occasionally. Drain hens, reserving marinade. Simmer marinade, covered, for 10 minutes. Reserve.

Per Order: Season 1 game hen half with salt and pepper. Grill or bake at 450°F, brushing frequently with reserved marinade, until meat is just firm to the touch, about 20 minutes. Brush with1/2 tsp. reserved honey. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped pistachios.

Photo Credit: NATIONAL HONEY BOARD