Are you looking for a show-stopping main course to impress your guests at your next special occasion? Look no further! Duck is a versatile and flavorful protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways, from classic roast duck to more adventurous stir-fries and stews. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of savory duck recipes and share 18 mouth-watering dishes perfect for any celebration.
From sweet and sticky glazes to savory sauces and bold spices, these recipes showcase the incredible range of flavors and textures that duck can offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, we’ve got something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and impress your friends and family with these delicious and satisfying duck dishes!
Roast Duck with Orange Glaze
Elevate your holiday meal with this sweet and savory Roast Duck with Orange Glaze recipe, perfect for a special occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) duck, patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and rosemary.
3. Rub the duck all over with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the duck in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes.
5. Brush the glaze all over the duck, then return to the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the duck reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Crispy Peking Duck Pancakes
Elevate your Chinese cuisine with this recipe for crispy Peking duck pancakes, a classic Beijing dish that pairs perfectly with tender and juicy duck. These delicate crepes are filled with sweet and savory goodness, making them a must-try at your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Peking duck filling (see below)
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Peking Duck Filling:
– 1/2 pound cooked Peking duck, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and eggs. Gradually add warm water, whisking until smooth. Add salt and mix well.
2. Brush a small non-stick pan with vegetable oil over medium heat. Pour in about 1/4 cup of batter and tilt to evenly coat the pan.
3. Cook for 30-40 seconds or until edges start to curl. Loosen with a spatula and flip.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of Peking duck filling on one half of the pancake, then fold the other half over to form a triangle.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for all pancakes
Duck Confit with Garlic Potatoes
This classic French dish is a testament to the power of slow cooking. Tender duck leg confit is paired with creamy garlic potatoes for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck legs
– 1/4 cup salt
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, sugar, and black peppercorns.
3. Rub the mixture all over the duck legs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the duck legs in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Add chicken broth and garlic.
5. Cover and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add potato slices and cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes.
7. Serve duck confit with garlic potatoes and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (duck), 10 minutes (potatoes)
Pan-Seared Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Elevate your dinner party with this impressive yet effortless recipe featuring tender pan-seared duck breast smothered in a rich cherry sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic evening in.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts, skin removed
– 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup port wine
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season duck breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat; sear duck breasts for 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to the oven and cook for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a saucepan, combine cherries, chicken broth, port wine, honey, and mustard. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until reduced by half.
5. Serve duck breasts with cherry sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Szechuan Duck Stir-Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy and savory duck stir-fry, perfectly balanced with sweet and sour notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless duck breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add duck and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in soy sauce, wine, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add duck back to the wok and stir-fry until coated with the sauce, about 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Duck à l’Orange with Herb Roasted Vegetables
A classic French dish that combines the richness of duck with the brightness of citrus and the earthiness of roasted vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Herb-roasted vegetables (see below)
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together marmalade, honey, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the duck with salt and pepper. Rub the orange glaze all over the duck, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Meanwhile, roast the herb-roasted vegetables according to the recipe below.
Herb-Roasted Vegetables:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 2 Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes for the duck and 20-25 minutes for the roasted vegetables.
Smoked Duck Salad with Pomegranate Dressing
A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the richness of smoked duck with the sweetness of pomegranate, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked smoked duck breast, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Add diced smoked duck breast on top of the salad mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar for the pomegranate dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle pomegranate arils on top of the salad.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Duck and Wild Mushroom Risotto
A rich and creamy risotto dish that combines the savory flavor of duck with the earthy taste of wild mushrooms, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle and cremini), sliced
– 2 duck legs, cooked and shredded
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in mushrooms and duck.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Braised Duck Legs with Red Wine Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this decadent and flavorful dish, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. Tender duck legs slow-cooked in red wine sauce will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck legs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season duck legs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear duck legs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add chopped onion and cook until caramelized, about 8 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover Dutch oven and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until duck is tender and falls-apart easy.
7. Serve hot with the rich red wine sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Duck Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the rich flavors of duck with the creamy freshness of avocado and lime crema. Perfect for a unique dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless duck breast
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Avocado Lime Crema (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and diced radishes for garnish
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
– 1-2 dashes hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place duck breast in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Grill duck breast for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Slice into thin strips.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with sliced duck, Avocado Lime Crema, cilantro, lime wedges, and radishes.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Grilled Duck Skewers with Hoisin Glaze
Elevate your summer barbecues with these flavorful and aromatic grilled duck skewers, smothered in a sweet and sticky hoisin glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless duck breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic.
3. Add the duck pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread the marinated duck onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the grill with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the skewers with the remaining marinade.
7. Serve hot and garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Duck and Lentil Stew with Rosemary
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a cold winter’s night, combining the tender duck breast with the comforting warmth of lentils and fragrant rosemary. A perfect blend of textures and flavors to keep you cozy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb duck breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the duck and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add lentils, rosemary, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Return the duck to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until duck is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Duck Cassoulet with White Beans
This classic French dish combines tender duck confit, rich white beans, and crispy bread croutons for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-pound) duck leg confit
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 bread croutons (see notes)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Remove duck confit from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
3. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Arrange duck confit in the pot, then spoon white beans on top.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until duck is tender and beans are creamy.
7. Remove from oven; top with bread croutons and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until croutons are golden brown.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Spiced Duck Breast with Sweet Potato Mash
Elevate your dinner game with this harmonious combination of tender duck breast and creamy sweet potato mash, infused with warm spices.
Ingredients:
For the duck:
– 4 duck breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the sweet potato mash:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice blend all over the duck breasts.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the duck breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Roast the duck for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, boil sweet potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve the roasted duck breast with warm sweet potato mash.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Duck Pho with Rice Noodles and Fresh Herbs
This Vietnamese-inspired soup combines rich duck broth with tender rice noodles, savory duck meat, and a burst of fresh herbs for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless duck breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs: basil, mint, cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges and bean sprouts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine duck, chicken broth, water, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Slice cooked duck into thin strips.
4. Assemble Pho by placing noodles in bowls, topping with sliced duck, and ladling hot broth over the top.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and bean sprouts.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Duck and Chestnut Pie with Puff Pastry
This hearty pie combines the tender flavors of duck and chestnuts with a flaky puff pastry crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless duck breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon cognac (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook duck, chestnuts, onion, garlic, chicken broth, cognac (if using), and thyme until the mixture is tender.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place the filling in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Duck with Honey Soy Glaze
Elevate your duck dish with a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes the skin to perfection. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) duck breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, season the duck with salt and pepper.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the duck until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Brush the glaze all over the duck, then transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Duck and Fig Crostini with Balsamic Reduction
Elevate your appetizer game with this sweet and savory combination of seared duck, caramelized figs, and tangy balsamic reduction on toasted baguette rounds.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 (6-ounce) duck breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1 baguette, toasted and cut into 1-inch rounds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine fig jam, balsamic vinegar, and honey. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
3. Season duck strips with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear duck for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Assemble crostini by topping toasted baguette rounds with seared duck, a spoonful of balsamic reduction, and a sprinkle of thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 savory duck recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic roasted duck with orange glaze to crispy Peking duck pancakes, there’s something for everyone. Try pan-seared duck breast with cherry sauce or spicy Szechuan duck stir-fry for a flavorful twist. For a more rustic approach, try braised duck legs with red wine sauce or duck and wild mushroom risotto. Whatever your taste, these recipes will leave your guests quacking with delight.
