Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both impressive and healthy? Look no further! This orange glaze recipe for duck is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a burst of flavour that will elevate your weeknight meal to a restaurant-worthy experience. This recipe combines the richness of duck with the bright, zesty tang of oranges, creating a truly unforgettable dish. Prepare for compliments galore!
Ingredients:
- For the Duck:
- 1 (about 2-pound) duck, patted dry
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 3 large oranges)
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the duck: Season the duck generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out. This simple step enhances the duck's natural flavour.
Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the orange juice, marmalade, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thicker glaze, whisk the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to form a slurry and add it to the simmering sauce. Continue to simmer until the glaze thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Roast the duck: Place the duck in a roasting pan and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. During the last 15 minutes of cooking, baste the duck with the orange glaze every 5 minutes. This will create a beautiful, glossy finish and infuse the duck with incredible flavour.
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful duck. Carve the duck and serve it with the remaining orange glaze.
Tips for the Best Orange Glaze Duck:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Freshly squeezed orange juice makes a significant difference.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your roasting pan is large enough to allow for proper air circulation around the duck.
- Adjust the glaze to your taste: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or tartness of the glaze by adding more honey or orange juice, respectively.
- Serve with sides: This delicious duck pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Variations:
- Spicy Orange Glaze: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili garlic sauce to the glaze for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate other citrus fruits like grapefruit or mandarin oranges for a more complex flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy orange glaze recipe for duck is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes. It's a healthy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!