Ingredients:
For the Duck:
- 2 duck breasts, skin-on
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (from about 3-4 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier or Cointreau (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Orange slices
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Duck:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
- Season the duck breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Duck:
- Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the duck breasts, skin side down, in the hot skillet without adding any oil.
- Sear for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Turn the duck breasts over and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 10-12 minutes for medium-rare or longer if desired.
- Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Make the Orange Sauce:
- While the duck is roasting, prepare the orange sauce.
- In a saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, orange zest, chicken broth, sugar, and red wine vinegar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and reduces by half.
- Stir in the Grand Marnier or Cointreau (if using) and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the unsalted butter until the sauce is glossy.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Slice and Serve:
- Slice the roasted duck breasts into thin slices.
- Arrange the duck slices on serving plates.
- Drizzle the orange sauce over the duck slices.
- Garnish with orange slices and chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
5. Enjoy!
- Serve your Duck à l'Orange immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
Duck à l'Orange is a sophisticated and delicious dish that combines the richness of duck with the bright and zesty flavors of the orange sauce. It's sure to impress your guests and elevate any special meal.