Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly simple to make, you’ve come to the right place! The Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is a recipe that never fails to impress. Perfect for family gatherings, festive occasions, or even a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish combines the rich flavors of duck with a sweet and tangy glaze that makes every bite unforgettable.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to achieve that crispy skin and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Plus, the fig and orange maple glaze adds a delightful twist that takes your meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Elegance: This recipe elevates your dinner table without requiring hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of fig jam and fresh orange juice creates a heavenly glaze that enhances the duck’s natural flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight treat, this dish suits any gathering.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it whole for an eye-catching centerpiece that will wow your guests.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even those who might be hesitant about trying duck will love its crispy exterior and sweet glaze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze are simple but full of flavor. Each one plays an important role in bringing out the best in the duck while enhancing that incredible glaze. Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients:

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 great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Spice: For a kick, try adding some chili flakes or hot sauce to your glaze.
• Change the Fruit: Swap out figs for other fruits like apricots or cherries in your glaze for different flavor profiles.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with herbs like sage or basil instead of rosemary and thyme for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

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

Step 1: Prep Your Duck

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, pat your chilled duck dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because moisture on the skin can prevent it from getting crispy. After drying it off, season generously with sea salt (if not brined), garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper both inside and out. Don’t forget to tuck in those fresh herbs!

Step 2: Make the 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 is well mixed and bring it to a gentle simmer. This will help thicken your glaze and meld all those beautiful flavors together—trust me; you want this step!

Step 3: Roast the Duck

Place your prepared duck on a roasting rack in a baking dish. This allows air circulation around the bird for even cooking. Roast it in your preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Halfway through roasting, brush some of that luscious figgy orange glaze over the top. This will give you that stunning golden-crisp skin we all crave!

Step 4: Serve It Up

Once cooked, let your duck rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period helps keep all those juices locked in. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and drizzle more of that delicious glaze over each serving. Your friends and family won’t believe their taste buds when they try this amazing dish!

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

Cooking a whole duck might sound daunting, but with a few pro tips, you’ll be on your way to impressing your family and friends with this delicious dish!

• Start with a dry duck: Patting the duck dry helps achieve that coveted crispy skin. Moisture is the enemy when roasting, so give your bird a thorough drying before seasoning.

• Score the skin: Make shallow cuts in the skin without cutting into the meat. This allows the fat to render out during cooking, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat.

• Use a roasting rack: Elevating the duck on a rack in your roasting pan promotes even cooking and helps crisp up the skin by allowing hot air to circulate around all sides.

• Baste for flavor: Don’t forget to baste your duck with its own rendered fat every 20-30 minutes! This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat moist throughout the cooking process.

• Let it rest: Allow your duck to rest for at least 10-15 minutes after roasting. This gives the juices time to redistribute, ensuring each slice is tender and flavorful.

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

Now that you’ve mastered the art of roasting duck, let’s talk about how to present this stunning dish! A beautifully roasted duck makes for an impressive centerpiece on any table. Pair it with colorful sides and garnishes for a feast that pleases both the eyes and palate.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme enhances visual appeal while adding a burst of fresh flavor.
• Orange slices: Placing thin slices of orange around your duck not only looks beautiful but also ties in with the figgy orange glaze, complementing its citrusy notes.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes in olive oil and herbs, then roast them until tender. Their caramelized sweetness pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of duck.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Whip up some creamy mashed potatoes using plant-based milk and vegan butter. The smooth texture balances the crispy duck beautifully.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.

• Steamed Green Beans: Bright green beans tossed with garlic and lemon zest make for a vibrant side that complements the richness of roasted duck without overpowering it.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful dish with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, making your dinner planning stress-free. Here’s how to store and enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• If you want to extend its shelf life, freezing is a great option!
• Make sure the duck is wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Use plastic wrap followed by heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet and cover with foil to maintain moisture.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes, until warmed through.
• For extra crispiness, remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while preparing this delightful dish!

Can I prepare Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze in advance?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can roast the duck ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined above.

What can I serve with Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The figgy orange glaze adds a lovely sweetness that complements various sides!

How do I achieve crispy skin on my roasted duck?

To get that irresistible crispy skin, ensure your duck is thoroughly dried before seasoning. Also, scoring the skin lightly helps render the fat during cooking.

What type of duck should I use for this recipe?

A whole Muscovy or Pekin duck works beautifully for this recipe. They have rich flavors that enhance the overall taste of your dish!

Can I substitute ingredients in the figgy orange glaze?

Yes! Feel free to customize your glaze by using different jam flavors or sweeteners like honey instead of maple syrup. Just be mindful of maintaining balance in sweetness and acidity.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze becomes a cherished part of your cooking repertoire! It’s not just about creating a delicious meal; it’s about sharing moments with loved ones around the table. Enjoy every step of making this dish, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations that suit your taste. Happy cooking!