This Zesty Orange Glazed Roast Duck is a show-stopping dish, perfect for special dinners or holiday gatherings. With its crispy skin and a rich, tangy-sweet orange glaze, each bite is an explosion of flavor. Fresh orange juice and honey create a deliciously sticky caramelized coating. The thyme, rosemary, and garlic infuse the meat with irresistible aroma. Serve this elegant roast for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
For the Duck:
1 whole duck (5-6 lbs)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 large orange, sliced
1 medium onion, quartered
Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional for extra aroma)
For the Orange Glaze:
1 cup fresh orange juice (2-3 oranges)
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp orange zest
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening)
Instructions:
1. Prep the Duck: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the duck dry and season all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Stuff the cavity with orange slices, onion quarters, and rosemary.
2. Score the Skin: With a sharp knife, score the duck’s skin in a crosshatch pattern, careful not to cut into the meat. This step helps render the fat for that perfect crispy duck skin.
3. Roast the Duck: Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up. Roast for 1.5-2 hours or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with pan drippings occasionally for added crispiness.
4. Prepare the Orange Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and orange zest. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the honey is dissolved. Add the cornstarch slurry, stirring until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Glaze the Duck: For a sweet and tangy caramelized finish, brush the duck with the orange glaze during the last 20 minutes of roasting. For extra glaze, repeat once more for that glossy, sticky perfection!
Enjoy this gourmet Zesty Orange Glazed Duck recipe a perfect choice for special occasions or holiday dinners. The crisp skin and sweet orange glaze make this dish a delightful combination of flavors that will impress family and guests alike!