Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both impressive and approachable, then you’ve landed in the right spot! This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the rich flavor of duck with a sweet and tangy glaze that will leave your guests talking about it long after the meal is over. Whether it’s a special occasion like Thanksgiving or simply a cozy Sunday dinner, this recipe fits perfectly into any gathering.

What I love most about this dish is how easy it is to prepare. You’ll feel like a culinary expert without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the mouthwatering aroma that fills your home while it cooks? Absolute magic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive presentation: A whole duck is a showstopper and makes any meal feel extra special.
• Delicious flavor: The fig and orange glaze provides a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity, enhancing the duck’s natural richness.
• Family-friendly: Even those who might be hesitant about trying duck will be won over by this flavorful dish.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the glaze in advance, making your cooking time on the day of serving much easier.
• Versatile for occasions: Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or even a fancy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in developing flavors that you’ll love.

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

This recipe is quite flexible and can be tailored to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the fruit: Instead of figs, try using apricot preserves for a different fruity twist!
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like sage or basil can give an interesting flavor profile.
• Change up the glaze: Add some ginger or chili flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Serve with sides: Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to round out your meal.

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). If your duck isn’t brined, season it generously with sea salt inside and out. This step enhances flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin we all adore. Rub garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper over the surface. Don’t forget to stuff it with rosemary and fresh thyme; these herbs will infuse amazing aromas throughout cooking.

Step 2: Roast the Duck

Place your seasoned duck breast-side up on a roasting rack in a pan. This allows hot air to circulate around it for even cooking. Roast for about 90 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it; if it starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

Step 3: Make the Figgy Orange Glaze

While your duck roasts, let’s whip up that glorious 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 smooth and bring to a gentle simmer. This process helps meld all those wonderful flavors together into a luscious sauce.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

Once your duck has roasted to perfection and reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C), carefully take it out of the oven. Brush on that beautiful figgy orange glaze during the last ten minutes of roasting for extra flavor. The glaze caramelizes beautifully on top of that crispy skin!

Step 5: Serve

Let your duck rest for about ten minutes before carving—it helps keep all those juices inside! Serve slices drizzled with any remaining glaze. Enjoy this delightful dish with family or friends; I promise they’ll be impressed!

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

Cooking a whole duck may seem daunting, but with these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends.

• Choose the right duck: Opt for a fat duck as it yields the crispiest skin. Look for a high-quality bird, ideally organic, for the best flavor.
• Score the skin: Make shallow cuts in the skin (not into the meat) to help render the fat during roasting. This results in extra crispy skin!
• Brine if possible: If time allows, brining your duck overnight can enhance its juiciness and flavor. Just remember to skip adding salt if you do this step.
• Let it rest: After roasting, allow the duck to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This helps retain its juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
• Adjust glaze consistency: If your fig glaze ends up too thick, simply add a splash of water or more orange juice until you reach your desired consistency.

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

Serving a whole duck can make any meal feel like a grand occasion. Present it beautifully on a large platter and drizzle with the figgy orange glaze for an eye-catching centerpiece that will have everyone eager to dig in!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the duck.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges not only enhance the dish visually but also tie in with the orange juice used in your glaze.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs make for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.
• Wild rice pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf with cranberries adds texture and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory duck.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide comfort and balance out the richness of the duck’s crispy skin.
• Steamed green beans: Bright green beans tossed with lemon zest create a refreshing contrast that elevates your entire meal.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with this oven-roasted crispy whole duck and figgy orange glaze! Enjoy every moment of cooking and savoring this delightful dish with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is not only a show-stopping centerpiece but also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance, making it an excellent choice for festive gatherings or busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover duck in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to keep leftovers longer, consider freezing them.
• Wrap the cooled duck tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet covered with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. For crispy skin, uncover during the last few minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe:

Can I use a different glaze instead of figgy orange glaze?

Absolutely! While the figgy orange glaze adds a unique flavor profile, feel free to experiment with other fruit preserves or glazes. Just ensure they complement the richness of the duck.

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

The key to crispy skin is proper preparation. Make sure to dry the skin well before seasoning and roasting. Also, roasting at a higher temperature towards the end of cooking helps achieve that desired crispiness.

Can I roast this duck without brining it first?

Yes! This recipe does not require brining. If you prefer, you can season your duck directly before roasting it.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze as much as I do! It’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy to any table, perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!