Red Cabbage Salad

Duck with Red Cabbage: A Traditional Recipe with a Seasonal Twist

Duck with red cabbage is a truly special dish that brings a combination of rich flavors and diverse textures to the table. This dish is not only a delicious choice but also a perfect occasion to gather family and friends around the table. By cooking this recipe, you will highlight not only excellent tastes but also a culinary story that dates back to ancient times when ducks were a symbol of prosperity and festive gatherings.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 1 duck (approximately 2,300 g)
- Salt, pepper, and rosemary to taste
- 2 Jonathan apples
- 1 orange
- Cloves to taste
- 1 stick of cinnamon

For the garnish:
- 2 medium cabbages
- 2 onions
- 2 apples
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt, pepper, nutmeg, cumin, and a bay leaf to taste
- Borscht or vinegar to taste
- Olive oil for cooking

Preparing the duck:

1. Cleaning and seasoning the duck: Start by thoroughly cleaning the duck, ensuring you remove all excess fat. Then, massage the duck with salt, pepper, and rosemary, ensuring these spices penetrate well into the meat. This step is essential for achieving a juicy and flavorful duck.

2. Marinating: It is recommended to let the duck marinate overnight in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to develop and incorporate better into the meat.

3. The filling: The next day, cut the apples and orange into small cubes. Mix them with a little salt, pepper, and a pinch of rosemary. These ingredients will add a pleasant sweetness to the duck. Place the mixture inside the duck, along with the stick of cinnamon and cloves. Ensure the filling is well secured by tying the duck's legs with string or using the skin to seal the filling.

4. Baking: Place the duck in a baking dish, adding oil or water as preferred, and cover with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 200°C for the first half hour, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and continue cooking for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The foil will help retain moisture and ensure even cooking of the meat.

5. Glazing: 30 minutes before finishing cooking, prepare a sauce from a tablespoon of mustard and a tablespoon of honey. Mix the ingredients well and apply this sauce to the duck, removing the foil. This will help the duck achieve a golden color and a very appetizing flavor.

Preparing the cabbage garnish:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Chop the cabbages finely and the onion finely. In a large skillet, heat a little oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes transparent.

2. Adding the apples: Add the two diced apples and sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar. This step will help caramelize the onion and add sweetness to the dish.

3. Adding the cabbage: After the apples have started to soften, add the chopped cabbage and season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, cumin, and a bay leaf. Add enough water to cook the cabbage and let it simmer until it becomes soft. Finally, adjust the taste with a little borscht or vinegar to add a note of acidity that will balance all the flavors.

Serving and tips:

Once the duck is well browned and the cabbage garnish is ready, place the duck on a platter and surround it with the sautéed cabbage. This dish is usually served with a glass of red wine or a flavorful beer, which will perfectly complement the rich taste of the duck.

If you want a touch of originality, you can add some roasted nuts on top of the cabbage for a crunchy texture or some orange slices for a fresh contrast.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This recipe is rich in protein due to the duck meat and provides a good source of vitamins and minerals through the addition of cabbage and apples. Duck has a high-fat content, so it is best to consume it in moderation. Red cabbage is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat instead of duck?
- Yes, you can replace the duck with chicken or turkey, but the cooking time will vary.

2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- Yes, the duck can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.

3. What type of wine pairs best with this dish?
- A red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, will perfectly complement the flavors of the duck.

This duck with red cabbage recipe is not just a dish but a culinary experience that brings together tradition and creativity. Enjoy every bite and cherish the time spent around the table with your loved ones!