Seared Duck Breast in Orange Sauce
Introduction
Duck breast is a versatile and flavorful meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the most popular and delicious ways to prepare duck breast is by searing it and serving it with a flavorful orange sauce. This dish is perfect for a dinner party, or simply for a special night in with your loved one. In this article, we'll go over step-by-step instructions on how to prepare seared duck breast in orange sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless duck breasts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Duck Breast
Start by trimming the excess fat from the duck breast. This will ensure that the skin will render properly when cooking. Score the skin of the duck breast in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut through to the meat. This will help the fat to render and the skin to crisp up. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Duck Breast
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and let it heat up. Place the duck breasts skin-side down into the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the duck breasts and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium-rare. Remove the duck breasts from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Orange Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and dried thyme, and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Add freshly squeezed orange juice, chicken broth, and honey into the skillet, and stir until combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until dissolved. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Serve the Seared Duck Breast in Orange Sauce
Once the orange sauce is done, slice the duck breasts on a diagonal and place them on a serving plate. Drizzle the orange sauce over the sliced duck breast. You can also sprinkle some minced parsley or scallions over the top for additional freshness and color. Serve immediately.
Conclusion
Seared duck breast in orange sauce is a delicious and impressive dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. The key to a perfect duck breast is in the searing process, where you achieve crispy skin and juicy and tender meat. The orange sauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the richness of the duck breast. With the instructions provided above, you can easily prepare this elegant dish in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!