Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is a favorite of mine because it combines crispy skin with a sweet and tangy glaze that elevates any meal. Whether it’s a cozy Sunday dinner or a festive occasion, this recipe will impress your guests and delight your taste buds.

What makes this dish stand out is not just the incredible flavor but also the way it brings everyone together. The aroma of roasting duck fills the kitchen, making it feel like a celebration. And trust me, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be adding this to your regular rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe simplifies the process of cooking duck, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Delicious flavor: The fig and orange glaze creates a mouthwatering balance of sweetness and zest that pairs perfectly with crispy duck.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves crispy skin and tender meat! It’s perfect for gatherings where everyone can dig in together.
• Perfect for special occasions: Make any dinner feel festive with this impressive main course that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this fantastic dish. You might already have some of these in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Duck

• 1 whole chilled duck
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (if duck is brined, do not add salt)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano, dried
• ½ teaspoon thyme, dried
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 sprig rosemary, fresh
• 2 sprigs thyme, fresh

For the Glaze

• ½ cup orange juice
• 2 tablespoons fig jam
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or coconut amino acids
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon corn starch

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the fruit: Use pomegranate juice or apple cider instead of orange juice for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like sage or tarragon for unique flavors.
• Try a different glaze: Substitute fig jam with apricot preserves or honey for an equally delightful sweet touch.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of maple syrup or fig jam to suit your taste.

How to Make Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Duck

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because removing moisture helps achieve that beautiful crispy skin we all love. Season the duck inside and out with sea salt, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper.

Step 2: Roast the Duck

Place your seasoned duck breast-side up on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Tuck rosemary and thyme sprigs inside the cavity for added flavor. Roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Basting occasionally will help keep it moist while enhancing those crispy edges.

Step 3: Make the Figgy Orange Glaze

While your duck is roasting, let’s whip up that delicious glaze! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce (or coconut amino acids), balsamic vinegar, and corn starch. Stir until smooth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. This glaze will add such incredible flavor!

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

Once your duck is done roasting, remove it from the oven and brush generously with the figgy orange glaze. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving; this allows all those juicy flavors to settle in. Serve warm with extra glaze on the side for drizzling.

Enjoy every bite of this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze at your next gathering—your family and friends will be raving about it long after dinner!

Pro Tips for Making Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

Cooking a whole duck may seem intimidating, but with these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to impressing your family and friends!

• Use a good quality duck: A high-quality duck will have better flavor and texture. Look for ducks that are organic or free-range for the best results.

• Don’t skip the dry brining: If using a fresh duck, dry brining it overnight with salt helps to draw out moisture and enhances the skin’s crispiness during roasting.

• Score the skin properly: Carefully score the skin in a crosshatch pattern (without cutting into the meat) to help render the fat. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy skin.

• Rest before carving: Allow your duck to rest for at least 15 minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful meat when you carve it.

• Experiment with glazes: While this recipe features a figgy orange glaze, feel free to experiment with other fruit-based glazes like cherry or cranberry for different flavor profiles.

How to Serve Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

Serving your beautifully roasted duck can be just as delightful as cooking it! Here are some ideas on how to present this stunning dish that will surely steal the show at any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling fresh thyme or rosemary over your dish adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced oranges: A few slices of fresh orange around the platter not only brighten up the presentation but also enhance the citrus notes of your glaze.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs perfectly with rich duck.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned simply, these sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the richness of the duck.
• Quinoa Salad: A light salad with quinoa, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots caramelized in honey bring a natural sweetness that balances out the savory elements of your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze will not only taste incredible but also look stunning on your dining table! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze makes for an excellent meal prep option, perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. You can prepare it in advance and store leftovers to enjoy later without losing any deliciousness!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the duck tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep out moisture and odor.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure that the duck is completely cooled before freezing.
• Slice the leftover meat for easier thawing and serving.
• Use freezer-safe bags or airtight containers to minimize freezer burn.
• The duck can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the duck in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• If reheating slices, cover them with foil to prevent drying out.
• For a crispy skin, broil on high for a few minutes after warming.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

How do I make Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

To make this dish, start by seasoning your whole duck with sea salt, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. Roast it in the oven until crispy and finish with a glaze made of orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and corn starch.

Can I prepare Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply store leftovers properly in the fridge or freezer and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with rice or quinoa to soak up that delicious figgy orange glaze!

Is there a substitute for fig jam in Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

Yes! If you don’t have fig jam on hand, you can use apricot preserves or any fruit jam that complements orange flavors well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! It truly is a centerpiece that will impress your family and friends alike. Don’t be intimidated—this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy every step of the process and savor those incredible flavors! Happy cooking!

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