Holiday Special: Glazed Roast Duck Recipe for Family Gatherings!
When it comes to holiday feasts, few dishes can rival the elegance and flavor of a perfectly prepared Glazed Roast Duck. This dish carries an air of sophistication that makes it the centerpiece of any celebration. With its crisp, golden skin, tender meat, and a glaze that adds a touch of sweetness, roast duck is a culinary delight that promises to impress.
What makes this recipe truly special is the combination of simple preparation and gourmet results. The glaze enhances the natural flavors of the duck while creating a shiny, appetizing finish. Paired with a delightful orange hazelnut stuffing, it offers a balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors. Whether you’re hosting a small family dinner or a large holiday gathering, this roast duck recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is straightforward and provides clear steps to ensure your duck turns out perfectly every time. The stuffing, with its vibrant mix of apples, hazelnuts, and citrus zest, adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the duck wonderfully.
This holiday season, step away from the usual turkey or ham and surprise your loved ones with a glazed roast duck. It’s a recipe that will leave everyone talking and looking forward to your next gathering. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this masterpiece.
Duck:
2 domestic ducklings (4-5 pounds each)
2 tsp salt
1 tsp grated orange zest
½ tsp seasoned salt
Stuffing:
4 cups soft bread crumbs
2 cups chopped tart apples
2 cups toasted hazelnuts, chopped
1 cup chopped celery
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup orange juice
2 large eggs, beaten
¼ cup melted butter
2-3 tbsp lemon juice
2 tsp grated orange zest
1½ tsp grated lemon zest
1 tsp seasoned salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried thyme
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Gravy:
3 tbsp pan drippings
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
⅛ tsp pepper
2 cups chicken broth
⅓ cup orange marmalade
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Step 1. Prepare the Ducks:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly prick the duck skin to allow fat to render during cooking, being careful not to pierce the meat.
Rub the inside of the ducks with salt and sprinkle the skin with orange zest and seasoned salt.
Step 2. Make the Stuffing:
In a large bowl, combine bread crumbs, apples, hazelnuts, celery, onion, orange juice, eggs, butter, lemon juice, orange zest, lemon zest, seasoned salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg.
Mix well and stuff the mixture into the cavity of each duck.
Secure the legs with kitchen twine if necessary.
Step 3. Roast the Ducks:
Place the ducks breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
Pour water into the pan to cover the bottom.
Roast for 2-2½ hours, rotating the pan halfway through and tenting with foil if the skin begins to overbrown.
The internal temperature of the thigh should reach 180°F, and the stuffing should read 165°F.
Step 4. Make the Gravy:
After the ducks are done, collect 3 tablespoons of the pan drippings.
In a saucepan, whisk together the drippings, flour, salt, and pepper.
Cook until bubbly, then gradually add chicken broth.
Bring to a boil and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Stir in orange marmalade until smooth.
Step 5. Rest and Serve:
Let the ducks rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Serve with gravy on the side.
Glazed roast duck pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a bright citrus salad. Arrange the duck on a platter, surrounded by stuffing and garnished with fresh orange slices for an elegant presentation. Drizzle with gravy for an added touch of flavor.
This glazed roast duck is more than a recipe; it’s an experience. With its tantalizing aroma, gorgeous presentation, and irresistible taste, it’s bound to become a favorite at your holiday table. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a meal that will leave everyone speechless.
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