This Zesty Roast Duck with Orange Glaze recipe is a delicious and elegant dish perfect for special occasions or holiday meals. The duck is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then roasted to golden perfection with a crispy skin. The rich, sweet, and tangy orange glaze brings the dish to life, adding a citrusy kick that complements the savory flavors of the duck.
Ingredients
For the Duck:
- 1 whole duck (about 5-6 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 large orange, sliced
- 1 medium onion, quartered
- 1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Duck
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the duck dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the duck inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Stuff the cavity with sliced orange, quarter onion, and rosemary sprigs (optional, for added flavor).
Step 2: Score the Skin
- Use a sharp knife to score the skin of the duck in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps render the fat and ensures the skin crisps up beautifully during roasting.
Step 3: Roast the Duck
- Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast the duck for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature of the thickest part of the duck reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Occasionally baste the duck with the pan drippings for extra crispy skin and flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Orange Glaze
- While the duck is roasting, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the honey dissolves and the glaze begins to thicken.
- Mix the cornstarch with cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the glaze. Let the glaze thicken for about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Glaze the Duck
- During the last 20 minutes of roasting, brush the duck generously with the prepared orange glaze.
- Allow the glaze to caramelize and create a glossy finish. For a thicker, stickier glaze, you can repeat this step, brushing the duck with the glaze once more.
Helpful Tips
- Rest the Duck: Once the duck is finished roasting, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Crispier Skin: If the skin is not as crispy as you like, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10 minutes of roasting.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a light green salad for a balanced and elegant meal.
Substitutions and Variations
- Duck Alternatives: If duck is unavailable, you can substitute with chicken or Cornish hens, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Spices: For extra flavor, add a cinnamon stick or star anise to the glaze for a warm, aromatic touch.
- Glaze Variations: Try adding a splash of orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier) to the glaze for an extra depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the orange glaze up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it when ready to use.
2. How do I know when the duck is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the duck. The thickest part of the thigh should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Can I use frozen duck?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the duck completely in the refrigerator before roasting to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
This Zesty Roast Duck with Orange Glaze combines the rich, savory flavors of duck with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze that caramelizes to perfection. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The crispy skin, juicy meat, and flavorful glaze make this dish truly unforgettable!