Baked Duckling with Apples is a classic dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of duck with the sweetness and tartness of apples. It’s perfect for special occasions or a comforting dinner. Here’s a recipe to make it:
Baked Duckling with Apples
Ingredients:
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For the Duckling:
- 1 whole duckling (about 2-3 kg or 4-6 lbs), thawed if frozen
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
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For the Apples:
- 4-5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and cut into wedges (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider or white wine
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Duckling:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Remove any giblets from the duckling and pat the duck dry with paper towels.
- Season the duckling inside and out with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place the quartered onion and crushed garlic inside the cavity.
- Rub the outside of the duckling with olive oil or melted butter.
2. Roast the Duckling:
- Place the duckling breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature of the duck reaches 75°C (165°F). Baste occasionally with the pan juices.
- If the skin is browning too quickly, cover the duck with aluminum foil.
3. Prepare the Apples:
- While the duck is roasting, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the apple wedges and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
- Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the apples are caramelized.
- Add the apple cider or white wine, and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. Set aside.
4. Add Apples to the Duckling:
- About 30 minutes before the duckling is done, carefully remove it from the oven.
- Scatter the caramelized apples around the duckling in the roasting pan.
- Return the duckling to the oven and continue roasting until the duckling is fully cooked and the apples are tender.
5. Serve:
- Let the duckling rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- Serve the duckling with the caramelized apples and any additional pan juices.
Tips:
- Duck Fat: Save the rendered duck fat for roasting vegetables or making crispy potatoes—it’s delicious!
- Sauce: For a more flavorful sauce, deglaze the roasting pan with a bit of white wine or broth after removing the duck, and reduce the liquid on the stove to make a simple gravy.
- Side Dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
This Baked Duckling with Apples is a show-stopping dish that combines savory and sweet flavors beautifully. Enjoy your meal!
