crispy roasted duck recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best crispy roasted duck recipe

I’ve always been a fan of roasted duck, and this crispy roasted duck recipe is my absolute favorite. I first discovered it while browsing through a cookbook from China, where it’s a staple dish.

The combination of the crispy skin and tender meat is just irresistible. My family loves it when I serve it for special occasions, and even my picky kids ask for seconds.

Roasting a duck can seem intimidating, but trust me, with this recipe, you’ll be able to achieve that perfect crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside. It’s also relatively easy to make, which is a bonus when you’re short on time.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to get your daily dose of protein and healthy fats. I love that it’s not too greasy, unlike some other roasted meat dishes.

The key to achieving that crispy skin lies in the right temperature and cooking technique. You’ll want to preheat your oven to a nice hot temperature, then let the duck roast for about an hour or until it’s golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Don’t worry if it takes a bit longer than expected – just keep an eye on it until it reaches perfection. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a comforting meal for your family.

Crispy Roasted Duck

4.5 from 1393 votes

A whole duck is roasted to achieve perfectly crisp skin and tender, juicy meat. The process involves air-drying the skin and basting with a honey glaze for a beautiful golden finish.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Duck

1 whole duck (about 5-6 lbs), giblets removed
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon five-spice powder
1 orange, quartered
4 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Glaze

1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the duck dry with paper towels, including the cavity.
2Use a sharp knife to prick the skin all over, focusing on the thighs and breast, being careful not to pierce the meat.
3Mix the salt and five-spice powder together.
4Rub this mixture all over the duck, inside and out.
5Place the orange quarters and thyme sprigs inside the cavity.
6Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
7Place the duck breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
8Refrigerate uncovered for at least 8 hours or overnight to dry the skin thoroughly.
9This step is essential for crispiness.
10Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
11Remove the duck from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
12Pour 1 cup of hot water into the bottom of the roasting pan.
13Roast the duck for 1 hour.
14In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for the glaze.
15After 1 hour, brush the duck generously with the glaze.
16Continue roasting, brushing with glaze every 20 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature in the thigh reaches 165 degrees F.
17This will take about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes more.
18If the skin browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
19Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 15 minutes before carving.
20The juices will redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
21Carve and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan with rack
Sharp knife
Kitchen twine
Pastry brush
Meat thermometer
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For extra crispy skin, you can pour boiling water over the duck before refrigerating to tighten the skin. Leftover duck can be shredded and used in salads or sandwiches.

Watch Video Of How Crispy Roasted Duck Works

I’m so glad I shared this recipe with you all – it’s become a staple in our household! Not only is it delicious, but it’s also relatively easy to make and packed with nutrients.

When serving leftovers, consider storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freezing them for up to 2 months. Reheating is simple – just place the leftover duck in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Roasted Duck

Q: What type of duck should I use for this recipe?

You can use either fresh or frozen duck for this recipe. If you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: How do I achieve that perfect crispy skin?

The key to achieving crispy skin lies in the right temperature and cooking technique. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and make sure the duck is patted dry with paper towels before roasting.

Q: Can I roast the duck ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the duck ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q: How do I reheat the duck after storing it?

To reheat the duck, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

Q: Can I serve this dish with other sides?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even some simple steamed greens.

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