Elevate your dinner table with this succulent Roast Duck with Brown Sugar and Soy Glaze. The combination of sweet and savory flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal. The crispy skin and tender meat will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious roast duck:

1 whole duck (about 4-5 pounds)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 inch fresh ginger (grated)
1 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Green onions (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Duck: Rinse the duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat from the cavity. Season the duck generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and five-spice powder (if using). Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Glaze the Duck: Place the duck on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Brush the glaze generously over the duck, reserving some for basting later.
Roast the Duck: Roast the duck in the preheated oven for about 1 hour. Baste with the reserved glaze every 20 minutes for maximum flavor and a beautiful finish.
Crisp the Skin: After 1 hour, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and continue roasting for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest the Duck: Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist result.
Serve: Carve the duck and arrange it on a platter. Drizzle with any remaining glaze and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: Approximately 450
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 20g
Protein: 20g

Preparation Time

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Serve

Serve the duck alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with a fruity wine or a refreshing iced tea to balance the rich flavors.
Consider serving with a side of stir-fried greens for added color and nutrition.

Additional Tips

Make It Ahead: The glaze can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Leftovers: Roast duck leftovers can be shredded and used in salads, soups, or sandwiches.
Cooking Alternative: For a smoky flavor, consider grilling the duck after glazing.

Recipe Variations

Citrus Glaze: Add the juice and zest of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Spicy Glaze: Incorporate a teaspoon of chili paste or Sriracha to the glaze for a kick of heat.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Cooked duck can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Special Equipment

Roasting rack
Baking dish
Saucepan
Basting brush

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of bird?
A1: Yes, this glaze works well with chicken or turkey as well!

Q2: How do I ensure the skin is crispy?
A2: Basting the duck and increasing the oven temperature towards the end helps achieve crispy skin.

Q3: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A3: Yes, you can slow-cook the duck, but you may miss out on the crispy skin. Broil it briefly after cooking for a crispy finish.

Q4: What if I can’t find five-spice powder?
A4: You can omit it or create a substitute with a blend of cinnamon, star anise, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg.

Q5: How do I know when the duck is done?
A5: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked at the thickest part of the thigh.

This Roast Duck with Brown Sugar and Soy Glaze is a show-stopping dish that combines flavor and elegance, perfect for your next gathering or special occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful meal!