Ingredients:
2 large duck breasts, with skin
30g (1oz) butter
1 clove garlic, crushed
1 tsp finely grated lemon zest
50g (1 ¾ oz) fresh breadcrumbs
2 tsp thyme leaves
For the marinade:-
150ml (5 fl oz) freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp runny honey
Juice half lemon
Finely grated zest of half an orange
Pinch of ground cinnamon
Serves: 2 Prep time: 15 mins plus marinating time Cook time: 20 mins
Cals per serving: 772 Fat: 49g
Step One: Score the skin of the duck breast in diagonal crosses and place in a ceramic bowl. Combine the marinade ingredients and pour over the duck. Marinate in the fridge, turning occasionally, for about 8 hours.
Step Two: Heat the oven to 180oC (gas mark 4). Remove the duck and dry with paper towels, reserving the marinade. Heat a large heavy frying pan over a moderate heat. Place the breasts skin side down in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until nice and golden. Transfer the duck breasts, skin side up, to a roasting tin and cook in the oven for about 10-15 minutes (for medium).
Step Three: Meanwhile, pour the marinade into a small saucepan and simmer over a low heat for about 5 minutes, or until reduced and slightly thickened. Season and keep warm.
Step Four: Drain any fat from the frying pan and add the butter. When foaming add the garlic, zest, breadcrumbs and thyme. Sauté until the crumbs are golden. Slice the duck breast either onto individual plates or on a small platter. Sprinkle over the crumbs and serve with a jug of the sauce on the side.
Tip: You can marinate the duck for up to 12 hours. It is important to boil the marinade well before serving it as the sauce.
Recipe courtesy of Easy Living
timeonyourhands.org 