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 a meal; it’s an experience. The crispy skin and tender meat paired with the sweet and tangy fig and orange glaze will leave everyone at your table in awe. Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe is perfect for making any occasion feel special.

I love how this duck recipe brings warmth and joy to the table. It’s one of those dishes that looks like you spent all day preparing, but really, it’s simple enough for even the busiest weeknights. Plus, the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen while it roasts will have everyone asking what’s cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: The whole duck makes a stunning centerpiece for any meal.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The fig and orange glaze offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a gourmet dish without stress.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone will love the crispy skin and flavorful meat, making it great for family gatherings.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Elevate your holiday dinners or celebrations with this delicious main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Each component works together to create that wonderful flavor profile you’ll adore. 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.

• Swap in Different Fruits: Use pomegranate juice instead of orange for a tart twist!
• Change Up the Herbs: Try using sage or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari to keep it gluten-free.
• Add Some Spice: Incorporate some chili flakes into the glaze for a kick!

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

Step 1: Prepare the Duck

Start by rinsing the duck under cool water and patting it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because moisture on the skin can prevent that beautiful crispiness we all crave. Next, score the skin lightly with a sharp knife to help render out some fat while roasting.

Step 2: Seasoning the Duck

In a small bowl, mix together sea salt (if needed), garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the duck—don’t forget to get into those crevices! This seasoning blend adds depth and flavor to every bite.

Step 3: Roast the Duck

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned duck breast-side up on a roasting rack in a pan. Roast for about 90 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Remember to baste occasionally with its own juices; this keeps it moist and adds more flavor.

Step 4: Make the Figgy Orange Glaze

While your duck roasts away in its deliciousness, combine orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), balsamic vinegar, and corn starch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until everything is well combined and starts to thicken. This glaze will bring an irresistible shine and sweetness to your finished dish.

Step 5: Glazing Time!

Once your duck has reached that perfect golden color (and those aromas are filling your home!), remove it from the oven. Brush generously with your figgy orange glaze and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows all those delicious juices to redistribute throughout the meat!

And there you have it—a truly impressive Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze that will be loved by everyone at your table! Enjoy every delightful bite!

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

Cooking a whole duck might seem daunting, but with these handy tips, you’ll feel like a culinary pro in no time!

• Use a chilled duck: Starting with a chilled duck helps render the fat more effectively, resulting in crispier skin. If you can, leave it in the fridge overnight before cooking for the best results.
• Pat it dry: Before seasoning, ensure your duck is thoroughly dried with paper towels. Moisture on the skin can prevent it from getting that lovely golden-brown crispiness we all crave.
• Let it rest: After roasting, allow the duck to rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
• Baste for flavor: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, baste the duck with its own rendered fat to enhance flavor and promote an even browning of the skin.
• Experiment with glaze: Feel free to adjust the fig and orange glaze according to your taste preferences. Adding a bit more maple syrup for sweetness or a splash of lemon juice for tartness can create a unique twist on this classic recipe.

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

Presenting your beautifully roasted duck can turn a simple dinner into a festive occasion. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme not only adds color but enhances the aromatic profile of your dish.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges arranged around the duck can add a pop of color and hint at the citrusy flavors within your glaze.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs provide a colorful and nutritious accompaniment that balances out the richness of the duck.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the sweet figgy orange glaze.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to your hearty main course.
• Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in olive oil and garlic offer a vibrant green touch and crunch that complements the tender duck beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to impressing your family or guests with an unforgettable meal featuring Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! Enjoy every delicious moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is not only a showstopper for your dinner table but also an excellent choice for meal prep. With a little planning, you can enjoy this delicious dish multiple times throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the leftover duck tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cut the remaining duck meat into portions for easier thawing later.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the duck in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be cautious not to overcook and dry out the meat.
• Enjoy your reheated duck with the figgy orange glaze drizzled on top!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful recipe:

Can I use a different glaze for the Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other glazes such as cranberry sauce or honey mustard. Just ensure they complement the rich flavor of the duck.

How do I achieve crispy skin on my Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

To achieve that perfect crispy skin, make sure to dry the skin thoroughly before seasoning. Cooking at a higher temperature at the end of roasting helps render out excess fat and crisp up the skin beautifully.

What sides pair well with Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

Consider serving this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The sweet and tangy glaze complements many sides wonderfully!

Can I use frozen duck for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure that you fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking. It’s important to follow safe thawing practices to maintain quality.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze. It’s truly a special dish that brings warmth and flavor to any occasion. Whether it’s a festive celebration or simply a cozy dinner at home, I invite you to try it out and share your experience! Happy cooking!