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Duck Breast with Crispy Skin

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Duck Breast with Crispy Skin

Perfectly seared duck breast with rendered crispy skin.

~20 mintotal~846 kcalper serving~40g protein~0g carbs~76g fat

Estimated. Worked out from the ingredients using the UK food composition tables, so treat it as a guide rather than a measurement. A typical recipe lands within about a quarter of the true figure. Makes about 1.

Ingredients

  • 1 Duck breast

Cooking Steps

  1. Take the duck breast out of the fridge 15 minutes before cooking and pat the skin completely dry.

  2. Score the fat in a criss-cross pattern, cutting through the fat layer but not into the meat, then season both sides with salt.

  3. Place skin-side down in a cold, dry pan and set over medium heat; starting cold renders the fat slowly for extra-crispy skin.

  4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, pouring off excess fat once or twice, until the skin is deep golden and crisp.

  5. Flip and sear the flesh side for 1-2 minutes, then transfer to a 200C (390F) oven for 6-8 minutes to finish, until a meat thermometer reads 52-54C (125-130F) for medium-rare.

  6. Rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain and serve.

Plant & Growing Tips

Thyme

  • Not in the recipe, but grow thyme to season your duck or for a complementary sauce. Plant thyme in full sun and well-drained soil; it thrives on neglect and can be grown in containers or as ground cover.
  • Water sparingly once established, as it prefers drier conditions and good drainage.

Rosemary

  • Not in the recipe, but grow rosemary for an aromatic rub or garnish with your duck breast. Rosemary needs full sun and excellent drainage; it can be grown in pots and brought indoors in colder climates.
  • Ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal issues.

Natural Pest Control

  • Thyme is generally pest-free; watch for spider mites in dry, indoor conditions and spray with water.
  • Aphids can sometimes appear on new rosemary growth; blast them off with water or use insecticidal soap.
  • Powdery mildew can affect rosemary in humid conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

Harvest

Thyme

  • Harvest thyme by snipping sprigs as needed, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time.
  • Regular harvesting encourages bushier growth and maintains plant vigor.

Rosemary

  • Snip rosemary sprigs with sharp scissors or pruners, choosing tender new growth for the best flavor.
  • Avoid cutting into old, woody stems too deeply, which can hinder regrowth.

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