| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 485 | 23g | 6g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 19g | 1g | 45g | 0.8g |
If you ask me about a recipe that can serve as an epicurean bridge between my Southern and African roots, I would surely mention the delightfully succulent and palate-arousing, Redcurrant Glazed Duck Breast. This recipe, with its beautiful medley of bold, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors, is a perfect example of what I like to call Afro-Southern fusion.
A Connection to My Roots
Every time I prepare and savor this recipe, I am reminded of the unique culinary landscapes of both my beloved Atlanta and my Nigerian heritage. The richness and depth in flavor of this dish pay homage to the Southern love for robustly seasoned meats, while the zesty redcurrant glaze adds an African twist, reminiscent of the sweet, yet spicy vibe found in many West African dishes like Nigerian Chicken Stew.
Health Benefits
Aside from the delightful flavors, the Redcurrant Glazed Duck Breast recipe offers some noteworthy health benefits. Duck is a fantastic source of protein and contains beneficial minerals like selenium and zinc. What’s more, the citrusy orange juice in the glaze provides a nice burst of vitamin C, and the balsamic vinegar offers potent antioxidants. Not to mention, redcurrants are packed with vitamin C and fiber, making this not only a flavorful dish but also health-friendly.
The presence of garlic also imparts incredible health benefits, including immune-boosting properties. Plus, the olive oil used for cooking is a fantastic source of monounsaturated fats, which supports heart health.
Pairing Suggestions
Being a dish with bold and rich flavors, the Redcurrant Glazed Duck Breast can be perfectly paired with both hearty and light sides. Think of Southern staples like creamy mashed potatoes, Southern cornbread, or, sticking with our fusion theme, an African-inspired Jollof rice. A crisp salad or simply steamed vegetables can help balance the richness of the duck and offer a refreshing contrast.
Elevate your culinary experience and embed this Redcurrant Glazed Duck Breast in your list of ‘must-try’ dishes. From the first bite, you’ll discover a harmonious marriage of flavors that resonate with the warmth of Southern cooking and the tempting allure of West-African cuisine – a gastronomic treat I am always thrilled to return to.
What You’ll Need
- 6 duck breasts, skin on
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of redcurrant jelly
- 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of orange juice
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup of fresh redcurrants (optional, for garnishing)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). While the oven is preheating, season the duck breasts on both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Two
Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the duck breasts, skin side down, to the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, until the skin is crispy and browned.
Step Three
Turn the duck breasts over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 minutes for medium-rare, or until the duck has reached your desired level of doneness. Remove from the oven, cover with foil, and let rest for a few minutes.
Step Four
While the duck is baking, make your redcurrant glaze. Combine the redcurrant jelly, balsamic vinegar, orange juice, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the ingredients are well combined and the glaze has thickened slightly.
Step Five
Pour the redcurrant glaze over the cooked duck breasts, making sure each breast is well coated.
Step Six
Return the glazed duck to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the glaze is hot.
Step Seven
Garnish the duck breasts with fresh redcurrants if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your Redcurrant Glazed Duck Breast!
