Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, then my Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is just what you need! This recipe transforms a whole duck into a succulent, crispy masterpiece topped with an incredible fig and orange glaze. It’s perfect for family gatherings or those special Sunday dinners when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

What makes this dish even more special is the lovely balance of flavors. The rich duck pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy glaze, making it a favorite not just during the holidays, but year-round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you’ll feel like a culinary expert in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The delicious flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy dinner party, this dish shines on any table.
• Crispy Skin Delight: Achieving that golden-brown crispy skin is easier than you think!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep some components in advance, making your cooking experience stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze, you’ll be using simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 get creative with these variations:

• Change the Fruit: Swap out figs for other fruits like apricots or cherries for a different flavor twist.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like sage or tarragon in the glaze for an aromatic touch.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze if you prefer some heat!
• Change the Sweetener: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.

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). While that’s warming up, rinse your chilled duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve that coveted crispy skin. Make sure to remove any excess fat from the cavity and season it generously with sea salt and spices.

Step 2: Create Flavorful Aromatics

Stuff the cavity of your duck with fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs. These herbs will infuse aromatic goodness into the meat as it roasts. Place your seasoned duck breast side up on a roasting rack in a roasting pan—this allows air circulation for even cooking.

Step 3: Roast the Duck

Roast your duck in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will fill with delightful aromas! Check periodically; if necessary, you can baste it lightly with its own juices to keep it moist.

Step 4: Whip Up the Figgy Orange Glaze

While your duck roasts, combine orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce (or coconut amino acids), balsamic vinegar, and corn starch in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until it thickens—this creates an irresistibly sticky glaze that complements our duck perfectly.

Step 5: Glaze and Crisp

Once your duck reaches golden perfection and has crispy skin, take it out of the oven. Brush on a generous amount of your figgy orange glaze all over. Return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until beautifully caramelized.

Now you’re all set! Serve this stunning dish with sides of your choice and enjoy every delightful bite.

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

Cooking a whole duck can seem daunting, but with these pro tips, you’ll be on your way to a beautifully crispy and flavorful masterpiece!

• Choose the right duck: Opt for a fresh, high-quality duck for the best flavor and texture. A well-raised duck will have a better fat content and richer taste.
• Pat it dry: Before seasoning, make sure to thoroughly pat the duck dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that coveted crispy skin by allowing the fat to render out more effectively during roasting.
• Score the skin: Lightly score the skin in a crisscross pattern to help the fat render and keep the meat tender. This technique allows moisture to escape and enhances crispiness.
• Rest after cooking: Allow the duck to rest for at least 15 minutes after roasting. This step lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked duck, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). This guarantees safety while keeping your duck moist.

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

Presenting your oven-roasted crispy whole duck with figgy orange glaze is an opportunity to impress your guests! The rich colors and aromas will surely excite everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped thyme or rosemary adds vibrant color and enhances the dish’s aroma.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges not only look beautiful but also bring out the citrus notes in your glaze, providing a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the duck.

Side Dishes

• Roasted root vegetables: A mix of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized pairs beautifully with duck, offering earthy sweetness that complements its richness.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic are classic comfort food that balances out the flavors while providing a satisfying side.
• Sautéed green beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with olive oil and shallots add brightness to your meal, making it lighter and refreshing alongside rich duck.
• Wild rice pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf with dried cranberries or figs can enhance your dining experience by adding texture and an extra layer of flavor.

With these serving ideas and tips, your oven-roasted crispy whole duck with figgy orange glaze will not only be delicious but also a stunning centerpiece worthy of any special occasion! Enjoy every moment of this culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is not only a showstopper for your dinner table but also an excellent choice for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store the leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the duck cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the leftover duck tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, carve the duck into portions to make reheating easier.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck pieces on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through, basting occasionally with any leftover glaze if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

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

To ensure crispy skin, start by scoring the skin of the duck lightly and seasoning it properly. Cooking at a higher temperature initially helps render out excess fat, leading to that perfect crunch.

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

Absolutely! While fig jam adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with apricot or raspberry jam, which will give you a deliciously sweet and tangy alternative.

How should I serve my Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Serve it alongside some fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that luscious glaze!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze inspires you to create something truly special in your kitchen. It’s perfect for gatherings and makes an impressive meal that your loved ones will rave about. Enjoy every moment of cooking—and eating! I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish!