Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, you’re in the right place! This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is one of my all-time favorites. The first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how simple the process was. The crispy skin and tender meat paired with a sweet and tangy glaze make it perfect for special occasions like family gatherings or cozy Sunday dinners. Trust me, your loved ones will be impressed!

This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also on presentation. When you bring this gorgeous duck to the table, it feels like a celebration! Plus, the fig and orange glaze adds an incredible depth of flavor that takes this dish to another level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll feel like a pro chef in your own kitchen!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves crispy duck and a sweet glaze—it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this dish elevates any meal.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare your glaze in advance so you can focus on roasting the duck when it’s time to impress.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of figs and oranges brings out the best in duck, creating a mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You probably have most of them already in your pantry!

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 best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! Here are some fun variations to try with this duck dish:

• Add spices: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or five-spice powder for an extra kick.
• Change up the fruit: Swap figs for apricots or peaches in the glaze for a different flavor profile.
• Try a citrus twist: Use lemon or lime juice instead of orange juice for a zesty alternative.
• Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

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 it’s heating up, take your chilled duck and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps achieve that coveted crispy skin! Next, season the cavity of the duck with sea salt and pepper—this will enhance the flavor from within.

Step 2: Seasoning the Duck

Sprinkle garlic powder, oregano, dried thyme, and cracked black pepper all over the outside of your duck. Don’t forget to tuck those sprigs of fresh rosemary and thyme inside the cavity. These herbs infuse wonderful aromas into the meat as it roasts.

Step 3: Making 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 blended and heated through. This glaze not only enhances flavor but also gives your duck that beautiful shiny finish!

Step 4: Roasting Time!

Place your seasoned duck on a roasting rack in a pan. Roast it in your preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until its skin is golden brown and crispy. Every 30 minutes or so, baste it with that lovely glaze you made earlier—this adds layers of flavor while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Once roasted to perfection, remove your duck from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat—ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

I can’t wait for you to try this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! It’s going to be an unforgettable addition to your dinner table. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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

Cooking duck may seem daunting, but with these pro tips, you can achieve a perfectly crispy and flavorful result that will impress your guests!

• Choose the right duck: Opt for a healthy, high-quality duck. A well-raised duck will have better flavor and texture, leading to a tastier dish overall.

• Dry the skin thoroughly: Patting the duck dry with paper towels before seasoning helps render the fat better during cooking, resulting in that coveted crispy skin.

• Use a roasting rack: Elevating the duck on a roasting rack allows hot air to circulate around it evenly, promoting even cooking and crispiness without steaming.

• Monitor internal temperature: Invest in a meat thermometer to ensure your duck reaches the ideal internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees safety and juiciness.

• Let it rest before carving: Allowing the duck to rest for at least 15 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite tender and succulent.

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

Presenting your oven-roasted duck beautifully can make all the difference in enjoying this scrumptious meal. With a few thoughtful touches, you can transform your dinner table into a feast fit for any occasion!

Garnishes

• Fresh herb sprigs: Adding sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme creates a pop of color and enhances the aromatic experience of your dish.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges not only brighten up your plate visually but also complement the flavors of the figgy orange glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base that pairs perfectly with rich duck.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and sea salt, these veggies add a crispy texture and slightly bitter contrast to balance out the sweetness of the glaze.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers freshness and crunch, enhancing your dining experience without overshadowing the main dish.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey elevate this comforting side dish while harmonizing wonderfully with the flavors of both the duck and glaze.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re ready to create an unforgettable dining experience centered around your 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 fantastic for meal prep! Not only does it taste amazing, but it also stores well, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the duck tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the figgy orange glaze in a separate container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Once cooled, carve the leftover duck into portions for easier storage.
• Place the portions in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• The glaze can also be frozen; just ensure it’s in a sealed container.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen duck overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Reheat for about 20-25 minutes, until warmed through.
• You can reheat the glaze separately on the stovetop over low heat until warmed.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delightful recipe! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use a different fruit jam instead of fig jam for the glaze?

Absolutely! While fig jam adds a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with other fruit jams like apricot or raspberry. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if necessary.

What is the best way to achieve crispy skin on my Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

To get that perfectly crispy skin, make sure to dry your duck thoroughly before roasting. Scoring the skin lightly will also help render out fat, leading to a crispier texture!

How do I know when my whole duck is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of your Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck should reach at least 165°F (75°C) at its thickest point. Using a meat thermometer is an excellent way to check this!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for a holiday feast?

Yes! You can prepare and roast your duck ahead of time. Simply reheat as mentioned above and serve with fresh glaze – it’s perfect for impressing guests!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze as I was when creating it! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Enjoy every moment spent cooking and savoring this delightful recipe. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy roasting!