Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that will impress your friends and family, you’ve come to the right place! This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a delightful twist of flavors to your table. The combination of the crispy, golden skin and the sweet, tangy glaze makes it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion—from cozy family dinners to festive celebrations.

I love this recipe because it takes the stress out of cooking duck. With just a few simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how delicious and elegant the final result is. Plus, who doesn’t love the aroma of duck roasting in the oven? It’s bound to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe guides you through each step so you can cook with confidence.
• Flavor Explosion: The fig and orange glaze adds a unique taste that everyone will rave about.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a Sunday dinner, this dish fits right in.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful duck paired with sweet glaze.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it whole for an eye-catching meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze. These items are easy to find at your local grocery store and come together beautifully in this recipe.

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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: If duck isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even turkey for a similar preparation.
• Change Up the Fruits: Use different fruit jams like apricot or peach for a new twist on the glaze.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like sage or parsley instead of rosemary and thyme for different flavor profiles.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze if you like a little heat!

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Duck

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, rinse your chilled duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because drying the skin helps achieve that irresistible crispiness we all love!

Step 2: Seasoning Time

Rub the sea salt (only if not brined), garlic powder, oregano, thyme, cracked black pepper, fresh rosemary sprig, and thyme sprigs all over the duck. Make sure to get into every nook and cranny! This seasoning will enhance the flavor as it roasts.

Step 3: Roast Away!

Place your seasoned duck breast side up on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Roast in your preheated oven for about 90 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Basting occasionally with its own juices ensures every bit of it stays moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Whip Up That Glaze

While your duck is roasting away, combine orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce (or coconut amino acids), balsamic vinegar, and corn starch in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it thickens slightly—this luscious glaze will elevate your duck even more!

Step 5: Final Touches

When your duck reaches perfection—golden brown with crispy skin—remove it from the oven. Brush generously with your homemade figgy orange glaze before letting it rest for about 10 minutes. Resting allows those mouth-watering juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Now you’re ready to carve and serve! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze; it’s bound to become a favorite in no time!

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

Cooking a whole duck may seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you can ensure your dish is a showstopper every time!

• Choose the right duck: Opt for a well-farmed, chilled duck for the best flavor and texture. A fresh, quality duck will yield crispy skin and juicy meat that’s hard to beat.

• Pat it dry: After rinsing your duck, make sure to thoroughly dry it with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin because moisture will prevent it from rendering properly.

• Score the fat: Lightly scoring the skin helps the fat render out during cooking. This not only makes the skin crispier but also adds flavor as the fat seeps into the meat.

• Rest before carving: Allow your duck to rest for at least 10-15 minutes after roasting. Resting helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender when you carve it.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the glaze ingredients based on your taste preferences. Adding spices or substituting fruits can create a unique twist on this classic dish!

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

Serving your beautifully roasted duck is almost as enjoyable as cooking it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme can add vibrant color and a fresh aroma that enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
• Orange zest: Grating some fresh orange zest over the top right before serving adds a pop of color and an extra citrusy aroma that pairs beautifully with your figgy orange glaze.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that complements the richness of duck perfectly.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and sea salt, these sprouts become crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside—an excellent balance to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to each plate and introduces different textures alongside the duck.
• Caramelized Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots bring an earthy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of your roasted duck.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that will leave everyone raving about your culinary skills! Enjoy every delightful bite of your oven-roasted crispy whole duck with figgy orange glaze!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without the last-minute rush. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish can be prepped in advance and stored properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap leftover duck tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• If you want to keep your leftovers longer, consider freezing the duck.
• Cut the duck into portions for easy thawing and serving.
• Wrap each portion in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat refrigerated duck, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish.

Can I use the same glaze for other meats?

Absolutely! The figgy orange glaze pairs wonderfully with chicken or turkey, giving them a sweet and tangy flavor.

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

For crispy skin, ensure your duck is patted dry before seasoning. Roasting at a high temperature also helps render the fat and crisp up the skin beautifully.

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

Roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes that complement the flavors of this dish perfectly.

Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the figgy orange glaze a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to any gathering. Embrace the process and savor every bite. Happy cooking!