Duck A La'Mandarin
Duck A La Mandarins features tender roasted duck glazed with citrusy mandarin and lemon flavors, complemented by a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Prick the duck skin all over and rub the skin and cavity with salt and pepper.
- Roast the duck for 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until a meat thermometer registers 180°F, pouring off fat every 20 minutes.
- While the duck is roasting, prepare the sauce by combining mandarin juice, mandarin peel in syrup, lemon juice, red currant jelly, sugar, wine vinegar, and dry white wine in a saucepan.
- Simmer the sauce until slightly thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
- Mix cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce to thicken further.
- Add sliced lemon peel and drained mandarin segments to the sauce and heat through.
- Once the duck is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
- Serve the carved duck with the mandarin sauce spooned over.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier skin, consider brining the duck overnight in a saltwater solution. If you can't find mandarin peel in syrup, orange zest can be a good substitute. Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less sugar based on your taste preference. Pairing this dish with a side of Perfect Pilaf(Supper Dish) can enhance the overall meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the duck with the mandarin sauce drizzled generously over the top. Complement this dish with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for balance. A glass of dry white wine pairs nicely, enhancing the flavors of the duck and sauce. This dish can be a stunning centerpiece for festive occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, place the duck in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps maintain the skin's crispiness. The sauce can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Duck A La'Mandarin contains roughly 325 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1819mg per serving (79% 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 fruit juice for the sauce?
Yes, you can substitute the mandarin juice with orange juice for a similar flavor profile. If using a different juice, adjust the sweetness and acidity to taste, as some juices may be more tart or sweet. Experimenting with different fruit juices can lead to unique variations of this dish.
How do I know when the duck is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the duck is done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach 180°F for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when the meat is pierced.
Is it necessary to pour off the fat while roasting?
Yes, periodically pouring off the fat is important as it helps the skin become crispy and prevents the duck from becoming greasy. It also allows for a more flavorful sauce since the excess fat won't overpower the dish. Aim to pour off the fat every 20 minutes during the roasting process.
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).