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Aldrick Winters

Orange duck recipe

Orange Duck is a classic dish featuring crispy roasted duck glazed with a bright, sweet citrus sauce. The rich, savory duck pairs beautifully with the tangy orange reduction, creating a balanced and elegant meal perfect for special dinners or holidays.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: French
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole duck – about 4–5 pounds
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons water – for slurry
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley – chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Small saucepan
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the duck dry with paper towels so the skin roasts crispy.
  2. Season the duck inside and out with salt and black pepper. Place it breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
  3. Roast the duck for about 60–70 minutes, occasionally spooning rendered fat over the skin until golden brown and crisp.
  4. While the duck roasts, combine orange juice, orange zest, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar in a small saucepan.
  5. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until slightly reduced and fragrant.
  6. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering sauce until it thickens into a glossy glaze.
  7. Stir in butter for a smooth finish and remove from heat once the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
  8. Carve the roasted duck into portions and drizzle generously with the orange sauce before serving.

Video

Notes

  • Score the duck skin lightly before roasting to help excess fat render and create
  • crisp skin.
  • Save the rendered duck fat from the pan—it’s excellent for roasting potatoes.
  • For deeper citrus flavor, add a splash of orange liqueur to the sauce while
  • simmering.