Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze! This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines the rich flavor of duck with a sweet and tangy fig and orange glaze that elevates any meal. It’s perfect for special occasions like Christmas, Sunday dinners, or even a cozy Thanksgiving feast.

Not only does this dish look stunning on the table, but it also tastes incredible. The crispy skin and tender meat are sure to win over even the pickiest eaters in your family. Plus, the ingredients are simple and wholesome—making this an approachable yet impressive dish to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe breaks down the steps so anyone can make it, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting.
• Delicious flavors: The combination of orange juice and fig jam creates a glaze that balances sweetness with savory goodness.
• Perfect for gatherings: Impress your guests with an elegant dish that’s great for holidays or family get-togethers.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or fluffy rice for a complete meal that pleases everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You might already have some of these items in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at everything you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

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 Figgy Orange 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! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:

• Swap the protein: If duck isn’t your thing, try using chicken or a whole turkey instead!
• Change up the glaze: Experiment with different fruit jams like apricot or cranberry for a unique twist.
• Add spices: Give it an extra kick by incorporating spices like cumin or smoked paprika into your seasoning mix.
• Fresh herbs galore: Feel free to swap in other fresh herbs like sage or parsley for added flavor.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Duck

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chilled duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying it properly helps achieve that irresistibly crispy skin! If your duck has any excess fat around the cavity, trim it off to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Duck

Rub the entire duck with sea salt (if using), garlic powder, oregano, dried thyme, and cracked black pepper. Massaging the seasoning into the skin will enhance flavor and help create that beautiful golden crust while roasting. Don’t forget to place the fresh herbs inside the cavity for extra aroma!

Step 3: Roast the Duck

Place the seasoned duck breast-side up on a roasting rack set in a baking pan. Roast in your preheated oven for about 90 minutes. The key here is patience—allowing time will render out excess fat while achieving crispy skin. Baste once halfway through with its own drippings for added moisture.

Step 4: Prepare the Figgy Orange Glaze

While your duck is roasting away, let’s whip up that fabulous 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 well-mixed and simmer until slightly thickened—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

When there are about 10 minutes left on roasting time, brush your delicious figgy orange glaze generously over the duck. Pop it back into the oven until caramelized and irresistible! Once done, allow it to rest before carving. This step lets those flavorful juices redistribute throughout the meat—ensuring every bite is succulent!

Now you’re ready to present this stunning Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze at your next gathering! Enjoy every moment as you serve up smiles along with this glorious dish.

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

Cooking a whole duck may seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you can achieve that perfectly crispy skin and sumptuous flavor.

• Pat the skin dry: This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Moisture on the surface can lead to steaming rather than roasting, so be sure to dry the duck thoroughly before seasoning.

• Score the skin: Gently score the skin in a diamond pattern without cutting into the meat. This helps render out the fat more effectively and allows the glaze to penetrate, enhancing both flavor and texture.

• Use a roasting rack: Elevating your duck on a roasting rack allows hot air to circulate around the bird, promoting even cooking and preventing sogginess on the bottom.

• Let it rest: After roasting, allow your duck to rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This helps redistribute the juices, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

• Experiment with glazes: While figgy orange glaze is delightful, don’t hesitate to try other fruit-based glazes like cranberry or pomegranate for different flavor profiles that suit your mood or occasion.

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

Presentation is key when serving this stunning dish! A beautifully roasted duck makes a statement on any table, especially when paired with vibrant garnishes and sides that complement its rich flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary not only adds color but also enhances aroma and freshness.
• Orange zest: A light dusting of orange zest over the duck just before serving brightens up the dish and adds an extra citrusy aroma.

Side Dishes

• Roasted seasonal vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes tossed in olive oil and herbs make an excellent accompaniment. Their sweetness balances the richness of the duck perfectly.

• Wild rice pilaf: With its nutty flavor and chewy texture, wild rice pilaf brings a lovely earthy element to your meal. Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped nuts for added interest.

• Creamy mashed potatoes: These classic comfort food favorites create a luxurious pairing with your duck. The creaminess contrasts beautifully with the crispy skin while soaking up any leftover glaze.

• Apple and walnut salad: A fresh salad featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and mixed greens adds a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the dish. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for brightness.

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this oven-roasted crispy whole duck served with figgy orange glaze! Enjoy every bite of this delicious creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze recipe is perfect for meal prep! It can be made ahead, allowing you to enjoy delicious, gourmet flavors without the stress on the day of your gathering. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat leftovers effectively.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the duck to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover duck in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the glaze separate if possible to maintain flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Wrap leftover duck tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and use within 2 to 3 months for best quality.
• The figgy orange glaze can also be frozen in a separate container.

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 loosely with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• For glaze, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

How do I achieve crispy skin on my Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

To get that irresistible crispy skin, ensure the duck is thoroughly dried before roasting. Scoring the skin helps render fat as it cooks, resulting in that perfect crunch.

Can I make the Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze without fresh herbs?

Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute with dried herbs. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount listed for fresh.

What are some side dishes that go well with Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, wild rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad. The sweet and savory flavors complement many sides!

How long does it take to cook Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze?

The total cooking time is approximately 90 minutes at a high temperature. Always check internal temperatures to ensure it’s fully cooked!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Oven Roasted Crispy Whole Duck & Figgy Orange Glaze recipe brings joy and warmth to your table! It’s truly special because it combines rich flavors with an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your guests. Enjoy every moment of making it and savor each bite! I can’t wait for you to try this delightful dish—it’s bound to become a favorite!