Garlic and Thyme Roasted Duck: A Gourmet Treat for Delightful Dining

Garlic and Thyme Roasted Duck is an exquisite dish that combines the rich, succulent flavors of duck with the aromatic herbal notes of thyme and the robust taste of garlic. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend dinner, this recipe will impress your guests or family with its delectable taste and elegant presentation.

Ingredients:

Duck:
– 1 whole duck (about 5-6 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 6-8 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1 apple, quartered
– 1 onion, quartered

Glaze:
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Duck
1. Rinse the duck under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess fat from the duck.
3. Season the duck generously with salt and black pepper both inside and out.
4. Rub the olive oil all over the duck to ensure even browning.

Step 3: Stuff the Duck
1. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic and fresh thyme leaves.
2. Rub this mixture inside the duck cavity.
3. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges, apple quarters, and onion quarters.

Step 4: Truss the Duck
1. Using kitchen twine, tie the legs together so the duck cooks evenly.
2. Tuck the wings under the body to prevent burning.

Step 5: Roast the Duck
1. Place the duck on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
2. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
1. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, and black pepper.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat until well combined and slightly thickened.

Step 7: Glaze and Roast
1. After the duck has roasted for 1 hour and 30 minutes, remove it from the oven.
2. Brush the honey soy mixture over the entire surface of the duck.
3. Return the duck to the oven and roast for an additional 30 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crisp.

Step 8: Rest and Carve
1. Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
2. Use a sharp knife to carve the duck and arrange the pieces on a serving platter.

Step 9: Serve
1. Serve the Garlic and Thyme Roasted Duck with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Enjoy your gourmet treat of Garlic and Thyme Roasted Duck, a dish that promises to delight your taste buds with every bite!