Honey-Glazed Roast Duck with Orange and Roasted Potatoes
Roast duck is a classic, indulgent dish that brings rich flavors and a stunning presentation to any dinner table. This recipe uses the perfect combination of honey, orange, and garlic to create a beautifully glazed duck with crispy skin, complemented by tender roasted potatoes. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish:
Ingredients
- 1 whole duck (approx. 2-2.5 kg)
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 2 oranges (juice and zest)
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
- 800 g potatoes, peeled and cut into pieces
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Duck
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (or 160°C for a fan oven).
- Rinse the duck under cold water, then pat it dry with kitchen paper.
- Remove any excess fat or innards if necessary.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix honey, the juice and zest of 1 orange, and the crushed garlic.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Season the Duck
- Generously rub the marinade over the entire duck, making sure to coat both the inside and the outside.
- Place the thyme sprigs and any leftover orange slices inside the duck’s cavity for extra flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes
- In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Roast the Duck and Potatoes
- Place the duck breast-side up in a large roasting pan.
- Scatter the seasoned potatoes around the duck in the pan.
Step 6: Roast
- Roast the duck in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the bird.
- Every 30 minutes, spoon some of the duck’s cooking juices over the skin to keep it shiny and ensure crispy, golden skin.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
- The duck is ready when the skin is crispy and golden brown, and when you pierce the leg with a knife, the juices run clear.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Once out of the oven, let the duck rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve the carved duck with the roasted potatoes and remaining orange slices for a burst of citrusy freshness.
Additional Tips:
- For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the duck for a few hours (or overnight) in a mixture of soy sauce and orange juice before roasting.
- Pair this meal with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the duck.
Enjoy this honey-glazed roast duck with its crispy skin, succulent meat, and delightful citrus notes—it’s perfect for a special occasion or a memorable dinner with loved ones!