Duck with orange.

August 22, 2025 by admin

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### For the Orange Sauce:

* Juice of 2 oranges (about 1/2 cup)
* Zest of 1 orange
* 1/4 cup white wine or dry vermouth
* 2 tbsp sugar (or honey)
* 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
* 1/2 cup duck or chicken stock
* 1 tbsp butter (for finishing)
* Salt and pepper to taste

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## Instructions

### 1. **Prepare the Duck**

* Pat the duck dry with paper towels and score the skin (if using breasts), being careful not to cut into the meat.
* Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme inside and out.
* Stuff the cavity with orange quarters, garlic, and aromatics.

### 2. **Roast or Pan-Sear**

**Whole duck**:

* Roast at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5–2 hours, draining fat every 30 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp.

**Duck breasts**:

* Place skin-side down in a cold pan and render the fat over medium heat for 6–8 minutes. Flip and cook until medium-rare (135°F / 57°C internal temp), about 3–4 minutes more. Let rest.

### 3. **Make the Orange Sauce**

* In a small saucepan, combine orange juice, zest, vinegar, wine, and sugar. Simmer until reduced by half.
* Add stock and simmer again until the sauce thickens slightly.
* Whisk in a knob of butter off the heat for shine and richness.
* Season to taste.

### 4. **Serve**

* Carve the duck or slice the breast.
* Drizzle with warm orange sauce and garnish with orange slices or zest.
* Serve with sides like roasted potatoes, green beans, or a simple watercress salad.

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## Tips for Success

* 🦆 **Score the skin carefully** – Helps render fat and crisp the skin.
* 🍊 **Use fresh orange juice** – For the best depth of flavor, fresh juice always wins.
* 🧊 **Save the duck fat!** – Perfect for roasting potatoes or vegetables.
* 🍷 **Pair with wine** – A Pinot Noir or dry Riesling complements the dish beautifully.

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## Final Thoughts

**Duck with Orange** is a perfect example of how simple ingredients — when treated with care — can create something truly unforgettable. With its golden, crisp skin and bold, citrusy glaze, this dish is indulgent yet balanced, classic yet exciting.

So whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something exquisite, Duck with Orange is always a good idea.

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**Want a printable version of this recipe, side dish pairings, or wine suggestions? I’d be happy to provide them!**