Roast Duck Thighs

Oven-Baked Duck Thighs with Crispy Potatoes - a Savory Recipe

If you're looking for a recipe that combines the intense flavors of duck meat with the crispy texture of potatoes, then you've come to the right place! Oven-baked duck thighs are a perfect choice for a special dinner or to impress a loved one. With a simple yet delicious side of potatoes, this dish will bring a touch of magic to your kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 duck thighs
- 3 medium potatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 200 ml chicken stock (can be made from hot water and a Knorr cube)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground pepper
- Garlic powder
- A few fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Preparing the Oven-Baked Duck Thighs

1. Start by preparing the duck thighs. You may not know this, but these thighs have a high fat content, making them extremely juicy and flavorful. Wash them well under cold running water and, to give them a crispier texture, score the skin with a serrated knife without cutting into the meat. This step helps remove excess fat during baking.

2. Once the thighs are prepared, sprinkle salt, freshly ground pepper, and garlic powder over them. This will not only enhance the flavor of the meat but also add a delicious taste.

3. Preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. This step is essential for achieving a perfect crust on the duck thighs.

4. Peel the garlic cloves and cut the potatoes into quarters. The potatoes will absorb the delicious flavors of the meat and garlic, making them the ideal side dish.

5. In a baking dish, arrange the cut potatoes, and place the duck thighs on top. Add the two bay leaves, parsley leaves, and the three whole garlic cloves. These ingredients will infuse the dish with excellent flavors.

6. Prepare the chicken stock by mixing 200 ml of hot water with a Knorr cube. Pour this mixture into the dish, being careful not to completely cover the thighs. This will help keep the meat juicy and create a delicious sauce.

7. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour at 180 degrees Celsius. It is important to check occasionally, ensuring that the thighs are evenly browned. If necessary, you can turn the thighs halfway through the baking time.

8. Finally, when the thighs are golden and crispy, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, giving you an exceptionally tasty meal.

Practical Tip: You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or onions, to diversify the side dish. Additionally, if you want an even more intense flavor, you can use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Serving and Pairing

Serve the duck thighs hot, alongside the crispy potatoes, and garnish with a few fresh parsley leaves. This recipe can be paired with a dry red wine, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the duck.

Nutritional Benefits

Duck thighs are an excellent source of protein and contain healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet. Additionally, garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to strengthen the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of duck?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but the baking time will be shorter, as chicken cooks faster.

2. How can I make the recipe less fatty?
For a lighter option, remove the skin from the thighs before cooking. You can also opt for a marinade with Greek yogurt and spices, which will help tenderize the meat.

3. What other sides can I prepare alongside the duck thighs?
In addition to crispy potatoes, you can serve steamed vegetables, carrot puree, or a fresh seasonal salad.

The recipe for oven-baked duck thighs with potatoes is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that will enrich your dinner. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers an extraordinary taste, being a perfect combination of meat and side dish. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the aromas that will fill your kitchen! Enjoy your meal!