Savory Duck with Velvet Mushroom Sauce

This elegant dish, featuring tender duck breast and a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, will surely impress your dinner guests. The combination of succulent duck and the velvety texture of the mushrooms creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend meal.

Ingredients

For the Duck:
– 4 duck breasts, skin-on
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Velvet Mushroom Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 shallot, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 300g mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Duck Breasts:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crisscross pattern without cutting through to the meat.
3. Season both sides of the duck breasts generously with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
5. Place the duck breasts skin-side down in the skillet and cook until the skin is crispy and golden brown, about 6–8 minutes.
6. Turn the duck breasts over and sear the other side for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast the duck for 8-10 minutes for medium-rare, or adjusted to your preferred doneness.
8. Remove the duck from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

2. Prepare the Velvet Mushroom Sauce:
1. While the duck is roasting, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped shallot and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
5. Add the fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the sauce on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a velvety consistency, about 10 minutes.

3. Serve:
1. Slice the rested duck breasts and arrange them on serving plates.
2. Spoon the velvet mushroom sauce over the slices of duck.
3. Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
4. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Enjoy this exquisite Savory Duck with Velvet Mushroom Sauce, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!