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 not just for special occasions; it can elevate any dinner into something truly memorable. Imagine gathering around the table with your loved ones, sharing slices of perfectly roasted duck drizzled with a sweet and tangy fig and orange glaze. It’s a dish that brings joy, flavor, and comfort all in one.

This recipe is a favorite of mine because it combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want to impress at a family gathering, this crispy duck is sure to wow everyone. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown skin and vibrant glaze make your dish look like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant.
• Deliciously Unique Flavors: The combination of figs and oranges creates a mouthwatering sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich duck meat.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe breaks down the process so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Sunday dinner or a festive celebration, this dish fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep many components in advance, making your cooking experience smoother when it’s time to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! This recipe calls for items you might already have in your pantry, making it even easier to whip up this delightful meal.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: If duck isn’t your thing, try using chicken or turkey for a similar but different flavor profile.
• Change up the glaze: Experiment with different fruit jams like apricot or raspberry for an exciting twist.
• Add some spice: Incorporate chili flakes or hot sauce into the glaze for those who love an extra kick.
• Herb it up: Feel free to use fresh herbs like sage or parsley instead of thyme and rosemary for a new taste experience.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Duck

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chilled duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying is crucial because it helps achieve that coveted crispy skin during roasting. Next, season both inside and out of the duck with sea salt, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper. Place fresh herbs inside the cavity for added flavor while roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Duck

Place your seasoned duck on a roasting rack in a pan. This allows air circulation around the bird for even cooking. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to baste it occasionally with its own juices—this keeps everything moist and infuses even more flavor!

Step 3: Make the Glaze

While your duck is roasting away, let’s whip up that fabulous figgy orange 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 everything melts together smoothly and thickens slightly—it should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

Once your duck reaches perfection in color and texture, remove it from the oven. Brush that delicious glaze over every inch of the skin—don’t be shy! Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving so all those wonderful juices can redistribute back into the meat. Serve it warm alongside your favorite sides!

And there you have it—a stunning Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze ready to impress! Enjoy each bite as you savor not just the flavors but also the memories made around your table.

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

Cooking a whole duck might seem daunting, but with these pro tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table!

• Start with a chilled duck: Using a chilled duck helps render the fat more effectively, resulting in that coveted crispy skin. Make sure it’s properly thawed if it was frozen.

• Pat the skin dry: Before seasoning, patting the duck dry with paper towels removes excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness when roasting.

• Score the skin: Lightly scoring the skin (without cutting into the meat) allows the fat to render out during cooking, which not only enhances crispiness but also prevents the meat from becoming greasy.

• Baste regularly: Basting your duck every 20 minutes with its own juices keeps the meat moist and adds flavor, while also helping to develop a beautiful glaze.

• Let it rest: After roasting, allow your duck to rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

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

Presenting your beautifully roasted duck can be as delightful as making it! With just a few simple touches, you can elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the aromatic experience.
• Orange zest: Grating some fresh orange zest over the dish just before serving brightens up flavors and adds an appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized pairs deliciously with the rich flavors of the duck.
• Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: This creamy side offers a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes and complements the savory notes of the dish perfectly.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette provides a nice balance to the richness of the duck.
• Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil with minced garlic make for an elegant side that still feels comforting.

With these garnishes and sides in mind, you’re all set to showcase your Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze in style! Enjoy every bite and savor this memorable meal with family or friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is not only a showstopper for special occasions but also perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store your leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool down to room temperature.
• Wrap the leftover duck tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to keep the duck longer, consider freezing it.
• Slice the duck into portions for easier thawing.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The duck can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the duck overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet and cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use the focus keyphrase Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze with different sides?

Absolutely! This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

What’s the best way to achieve crispy skin on my Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

To achieve that perfect crispiness, ensure that your duck is thoroughly dried before roasting. Additionally, scoring the skin can help render fat more effectively.

How do I know when my duck is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and roast your duck ahead of time and reheat it just before serving. The figgy orange glaze can also be made ahead.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! It’s such a unique dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises an impressive outcome. Enjoy every moment of cooking it, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with family and friends—happy cooking!