Are you ready to treat yourself to a dish that’s decadent, crispy, and bursting with rich flavors? I’ve got just the recipe for you: Crispy Duck Legs. This dish features duck legs that are perfectly seasoned and cooked to crispy, golden perfection. It’s a luxurious meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for a special occasion or when you simply want to indulge.
What I love about this recipe is the combination of tender meat and crispy skin, creating a delightful texture that’s sure to impress. Plus, the flavors are deep and satisfying, making every bite a treat.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and create this mouthwatering dish together!
Crispy Duck Legs
Ingredients
- 4 duck legs
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 orange zest and juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the Duck Legs: In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the duck legs all over with the orange zest, then season generously with the spice mixture.
- Sear the Duck Legs: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the duck legs, skin side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the duck legs and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Roast the Duck Legs: Pour the orange juice over the duck legs in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 1 hour, basting occasionally with the pan juices. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the duck legs from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs.
Notes
- Make sure to pat the duck legs dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure crispy skin.
- For even crispier skin, score the skin lightly with a sharp knife before seasoning.
- Save the rendered duck fat for roasting potatoes or vegetables – it’s liquid gold!
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 1g
Wrapping Up:
There you have it, my friends – Crispy Duck Legs, a decadent and flavorful delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. I hope you enjoyed this recipe as much as I did. It’s a wonderful way to indulge in something special and create a memorable dining experience. If you have any questions or need adjustments for dietary needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. I love hearing from you all and helping you create delicious memories in your kitchen.
Until next time, happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!
