Mesquite Chipotle Marinated Cornish Hens

1 7 ounce can chipotle peppers with adobo sauce
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic
juice of one lime
2 tablespoons cumin seed
1 teaspoon oregano or marjoram
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/8 cup tequila
1/4 cup cilantro leaves
3 tablespoons mesquite liquid smoke
2 tablespoons brown sugar
6 to 8 Cornish hens

In a small pan toast the cumin seed, then grind to a powder in a spice mill. Mix with the oregano, black pepper, salt and sugar.

In a blender or food processor, add 1/2 a can of chipotles for medium hot or the full can for hot. Add garlic cloves, tequila, liquid smoke, and the spice mixture drizzle oil in till the mixture emulsifies and is thick and smooth; then blend in the cilantro leaves.

If the mixture is too thick, it may be thinned out with the addition of a little water. Marinate hens in mixture for 12 hours. Grill over hot coals until meat is no longer pink and outside is crispy.

Serves 6 to 8.