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Citrus-Herb Roast Duck

This roast duck features crispy, golden skin and tender meat, infused with a vibrant citrus-herb glaze. The process involves scoring and seasoning the duck, roasting to perfection, and basting with a zesty, fragrant glaze that elevates the rich poultry flavor. The final dish boasts a crackly exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, perfect for a special occasion or a celebratory meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: French
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole duck preferably organic or free-range
  • 2 tbsp salt for seasoning
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 cup orange juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 lemon lemon juiced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 sprigs thyme fresh
  • 2 sprigs rosemary fresh
  • 2 tbsp honey preferably local
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce for depth and color
  • 2 tbsp olive oil for glazing and skin crisping

Equipment

  • Roasting pan with rack
  • Sharp paring knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place the duck on a clean work surface and score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps render fat and crisp the skin.
  2. Season the entire duck generously with salt and black pepper, rubbing it into the scored skin and inside the cavity for even flavor.
  3. Place the duck on a roasting rack set inside a pan, breast side up, to allow excess fat to drain away as it cooks.
  4. Roast the duck for 20 minutes at 200°C, then reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (355°F). Continue roasting, basting every 20 minutes with the citrus-herb glaze, until the skin turns deep golden and crispy, about 1 hour.
  5. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by combining orange juice, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, honey, soy sauce, and olive oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Once the duck skin is crispy and golden, check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) using a meat thermometer. If needed, roast a bit longer or cover loosely with foil to finish cooking.
  7. Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest on the rack for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat with crispy skin.
  8. Brush the duck generously with the citrus-herb glaze, allowing it to soak into the skin and infuse extra flavor. Reapply a few times if desired.
  9. Carve the duck into serving pieces, revealing tender, juicy meat with beautifully crisped skin. Serve immediately, ideally with additional citrus slices or herbs for garnish.