Description
A step-by-step guide to cooking duck breasts with crispy skin and tender meat.
Ingredients
- ✔ 2 duck breasts
- ✔ 1 tsp coarse sea salt
- ✔ ½ tsp black pepper
- ✔ 1 sprig fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Duck
- Pat the duck breasts dry with paper towels.
- Score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Cook the Duck
- Place the duck breasts skin-side down in a cold pan.
- Turn the heat to medium-low and cook for 6-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the duck and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (for medium-rare).
3️⃣ Rest & Serve
- Remove from heat and let the duck rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve warm with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a balsamic glaze
Notes
🔹 Serving Suggestions:
✔ Pair with roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, or wild rice for a balanced meal.
✔ For a gourmet twist, drizzle with an orange glaze or balsamic reduction.
✔ Great for special occasions or romantic dinners—serve with a glass of sparkling water infused with citrus.
✔ Leftover duck? Use it in salads, wraps, or stir-fries the next day.
🔹 Pro Tips:
✔ For the crispiest skin, let the duck breasts rest uncovered in the fridge for 1 hour before cooking.
✔ Always start in a cold, dry pan—this allows the fat to render properly for golden, crispy skin.
✔ Use a meat thermometer to ensure medium-rare (130°F) for the best texture.
✔ Save the rendered duck fat—it’s perfect for roasting vegetables or making crispy potatoes.
✔ Slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g