Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that’s surprisingly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It combines the rich flavors of duck with a sweet and tangy glaze that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or just a special weeknight treat, this dish never fails to impress.

The best part about this recipe is how straightforward it is. With just a few simple steps, you can create a beautiful centerpiece for your meal that looks gourmet but feels warm and inviting. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Impressive Presentation: Roasting a whole duck makes for a stunning centerpiece that will wow your guests.
• Deliciously Unique Flavors: The fig and orange glaze brings a delightful sweetness that perfectly compliments the savory duck.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is approachable even for novice cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday feasts to casual Sunday dinners, this dish fits right in at any table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The glaze can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of your dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this delicious oven-roasted crispy duck and figgy orange glaze, you won’t need anything fancy—just good quality ingredients that work beautifully together.

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

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s talk about some fun variations!

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Change the Fruit: Use different fruit preserves like cherry or apricot instead of fig jam for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Spices: Experiment with spices like cumin or coriander for an extra layer of flavor in the glaze.
• Try Different Citrus: Swap out orange juice for lemon or lime juice if you prefer a more tart flavor profile.
• Go Green: Add some sliced green onions or chopped parsley as a garnish for freshness and color.

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

Step 1: Prep the Duck

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse your chilled duck under cool water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the skin is crucial because it helps achieve that elusive crispy skin we all love. Next, rub salt, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, and cracked black pepper all over the duck. If your duck was brined beforehand, skip adding any extra salt!

Step 2: Roast the Duck

Place your seasoned duck breast-side up on a roasting rack in a pan. This allows hot air to circulate around it evenly. Roast in your preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Trust me; the aroma will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering delight!

Step 3: Make the Figgy Orange Glaze

While your duck roasts away, prepare the glaze! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine orange juice, fig jam, maple syrup, soy sauce (or coconut amino acids), balsamic vinegar, and corn starch. Stir until everything is well mixed and bring it to a gentle simmer until slightly thickened—about 5-7 minutes should do it.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve!

Once your duck has reached perfect crispiness (and trust me; you’ll know when it does), carefully remove it from the oven. Brush generous amounts of your lovely figgy orange glaze all over the duck while it’s still hot. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before carving—this helps keep all those delicious juices inside.

And there you have it—a beautiful Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze that’s sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking a whole duck may seem daunting, but with these handy tips, you’ll be well on your way to an impressive dish that’ll wow your guests!

• Choose the right duck: Look for a fresh, high-quality duck for the best flavor and texture. A good-quality bird will yield crispy skin and tender meat, making all the difference in your final dish.

• Pat dry for crispiness: After rinsing the duck, make sure to pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving that perfect crispy skin during roasting.

• Use a roasting rack: Elevating the duck on a roasting rack allows hot air to circulate around the bird, ensuring even cooking and helping fat to render away from the skin. This step is essential for achieving that glorious crunch!

• Let it rest: Don’t skip the resting period after roasting! Allowing the duck to rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier bite.

• Glaze during the last 20 minutes: To achieve that luscious figgy orange glaze without burning it, apply it during the last 20 minutes of roasting. This timing ensures a beautiful caramelization while keeping the flavors vibrant.

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

Serving your oven-roasted crispy whole duck is just as important as cooking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this dish into a feast fit for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme not only adds color but also enhances flavor.
• Orange slices: Thinly sliced oranges arranged around the duck add a pop of color and complement the figgy orange glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and herbs makes for an earthy side that balances out the richness of the duck.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes infused with garlic and butter provide comfort and creaminess; they’re perfect for soaking up any of that delicious glaze.

• Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed with lemon zest and almonds add brightness and crunch to your plate, creating a lovely contrast with the juicy duck.

• Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty wild rice pilaf mixed with cranberries and pecans offers texture and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with both duck and glaze.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a stunning presentation that not only tastes fantastic but also looks beautiful on your table! Enjoy every moment of this culinary adventure.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze recipe is fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dish with minimal effort throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover duck in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, carve any leftover meat from the bone and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Ensure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• It’s best to use the frozen duck within 2-3 months for the best taste.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen duck overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the duck on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dish.

Can I use a different glaze instead of figgy orange glaze?

Absolutely! While the figgy orange glaze is highlighted in this recipe, you can experiment with other fruit-based glazes like apricot or cranberry for a unique twist.

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

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement the rich flavors of the duck!

How do I ensure my duck skin is crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispy skin, make sure to dry the duck thoroughly before seasoning. Additionally, scoring the skin can help render out excess fat during roasting.

Can I prepare Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze in advance?

Yes! You can roast the duck ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to store it properly as outlined above.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! It’s a dish that brings warmth and celebration to any table. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy dinner at home, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!