Description
A classic French dish, Duck à l’Orange features crispy, golden duck breast glazed in a rich, tangy orange sauce. Served alongside roasted Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and cherry tomatoes, this dish is the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the duck:
- 2 duck breasts (magrets de canard)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the orange sauce:
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
For the roasted vegetables:
- 1/2 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 medium potatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
- Fresh mint for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the duck:
- Score the skin of the duck breast in a crisscross pattern (without cutting into the meat).
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Place the duck skin-side down in a cold pan and cook over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes for medium-rare.
- Set aside and let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Make the orange sauce:
- In the same pan, remove excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
- Add orange juice, zest, honey, balsamic vinegar, and chicken broth.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in butter to thicken and create a glossy finish.
Roast the vegetables:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, until golden and tender.
Serve:
- Slice the duck breast and arrange on plates.
- Drizzle with the orange sauce.
- Serve with the roasted vegetables.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios and fresh mint.
Notes
- Scoring the skin helps render the fat and achieve crispy, golden skin.
- Letting the duck rest before slicing locks in the juices.
- The orange sauce can be enhanced with a splash of Grand Marnier or Cointreau for extra depth.
- Serve with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a citrusy white wine like Viognier.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared, Roasting
- Cuisine: French