Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that impresses without the fuss, you’ve come to the right place! My favorite recipe for Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze is a delightful way to elevate any meal. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday dinner, or just a special Sunday night, this dish will have everyone raving and asking for seconds.

The best part? This recipe makes roasting a whole duck feel like a breeze. With its crispy skin and the sweet tang of fig and orange glaze, it strikes the perfect balance of flavors that warms your heart and fills your tummy. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive centerpiece for your table.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the glaze in advance and finish the dish on the day of your gathering.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of figs and oranges creates a mouthwatering glaze that complements the duck perfectly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holidays to weeknight dinners, this recipe fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be enjoyable and stress-free! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to make our Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze.

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:

• Swap the fruit: Use other fruits like apple or pear for a different flavor profile.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with fresh sage or tarragon instead of rosemary and thyme.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a little heat.
• Try different sweeteners: Replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for alternative sweetness.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Duck

Start by preheating your oven and getting your duck ready. Pat it dry with paper towels; this helps achieve that beautiful crispy skin we all love. Rub it with sea salt (if needed) and sprinkle on garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper. Don’t forget to tuck some fresh rosemary and thyme inside; it adds wonderful aroma while roasting!

Step 2: Make the Figgy Orange Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix together orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce (or coconut amino acids), balsamic vinegar, and corn starch. Stir until combined and thickened slightly. This glaze brings such a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with our savory duck!

Step 3: Roast the Duck

Place your seasoned duck on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast it in your preheated oven until golden brown and crispy—about 90 minutes should do it! Don’t forget to baste it occasionally with its own juices; this keeps it moist and enhances those flavors.

Step 4: Glaze Time!

During the last 15-20 minutes of roasting, brush that delicious figgy orange glaze over the duck. This step will caramelize beautifully in the oven, giving you that lovely glossy finish that’s simply irresistible!

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once done roasting, let your duck rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice it up and drizzle any extra glaze on top for an extra punch of flavor!

Now you’re ready to serve an incredible meal that’s sure to delight! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking a whole duck might seem daunting, but with these handy tips, you’re on your way to achieving a beautifully roasted bird that will impress everyone at your table.

• Start with a Chilled Duck: Make sure your duck is thoroughly chilled before cooking. A cold duck ensures even cooking and helps achieve that coveted crispy skin.

• Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: After rinsing the duck, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This step is essential as moisture can prevent the skin from crisping up nicely during roasting.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme not only enhances the flavor but also adds aromatic qualities that will make your kitchen smell heavenly as it cooks.

• Baste for Flavor: During the roasting process, baste the duck with its own juices every 20-30 minutes. This keeps the meat moist and infuses extra flavor throughout, making every bite delectable.

• Let It Rest: After roasting, let the duck rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

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

Presenting your oven-roasted crispy whole duck in an appealing way can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh Citrus Slices: Decorate your plate with slices of orange or lemon for a pop of color and extra zest that complements the glaze perfectly.
• Herb Sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme can add an elegant touch while tying in with the flavors of your dish.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs provide a sweet and savory complement to your duck.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that balances out the richness of the duck.

• Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in a bit of olive oil and lemon juice add freshness and lightness to your meal.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and texture to round out your plate beautifully.

With these generous servings of tips and ideas, you’re set to create a memorable dining experience around this stunning Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious flavors throughout the week without the fuss. Here’s how to store it properly!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover duck in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the duck is fully cooled before freezing.
• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also crisp the skin by removing the foil for the last few minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Have some questions? Here are some common inquiries about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the duck and glaze ahead of time, then refrigerate them separately. Just roast it when you’re ready to serve for a delicious meal.

What should I serve with Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The sweet figgy orange glaze complements savory sides beautifully!

Is it difficult to make Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

Not at all! This recipe demystifies the process and provides step-by-step instructions, making it easy even for beginner cooks.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! It’s a special dish that combines impressive presentation with mouthwatering flavors. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!