Barbecue Duckling
Tender, smoky barbecue duckling with rich flavors and crispy skin, perfect for festive dinners or special gatherings, served over rice or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly defrost the duckling.
- Remove giblets, neck, and excess fat.
- Quarter the duckling.
- Place in salt water for at least 2 to 4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Thoroughly rinse the duck pieces and place on a broiler pan coated with cooking spray.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes, turning once.
- Drain excess fat from the pan.
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and cook for 1 hour, turning every 15 minutes.
- In an 8-quart pot, place barbecue sauce and water.
- Mix thoroughly.
- Add the cooked duckling to the sauce mixture.
- Cover and cook over very low heat for 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Serve hot over rice or pasta. Enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the duckling in the barbecue sauce mixture overnight. If you prefer a less fatty dish, consider using a leaner sauce or reducing the amount of barbecue sauce. Substituting apple cider vinegar for some of the water can enhance the tanginess. Ensure you check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecue duckling over a bed of steamed rice or pasta to soak up the sauce. Pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with Kathy'S Sunset Turkey Salad for a light side option. Don't forget to drizzle extra barbecue sauce on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover barbecue duckling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the duck in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, it can be reheated gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Duckling contains roughly 252 calories, with 22g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 821mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sauce?
Yes, you can experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or hoisin, for a unique flavor. Just adjust the water accordingly to maintain the sauce's consistency. Each sauce will impart a different taste, so choose one that complements your palate.
How can I ensure the duck is crispy?
To achieve a crispy skin, make sure to thoroughly dry the duck pieces after rinsing and before baking. You can also increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to crisp up the skin further.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The barbecue duckling is great for meal prep. You can cook a batch ahead of time and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just store in individual containers and reheat as needed for a quick and tasty meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).