How to Cook Thai-Style Duck with Spicy Green Curry

Thai-style duck with spicy green curry is a delicious, aromatic dish that brings together the rich flavors of duck and the intense heat of Thai green curry. If you're looking to impress your family and friends with a restaurant-quality meal at home, follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

To prepare Thai-style duck with spicy green curry, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 duck breasts
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
  • 3-4 tablespoons green curry paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
  • 1 cup Thai basil leaves
  • 1 cup sliced vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, and green beans work well)
  • Cooked jasmine rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Duck

Start by scoring the skin of the duck breasts in a crisscross pattern, making sure not to cut into the meat. This will help render the fat and achieve a crispy skin. Season both sides of the duck breasts with salt and pepper.

2. Cook the Duck

In a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Place the duck breasts skin-side down in the pan. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, allowing the fat to render and the skin to become crispy. Flip the duck breasts and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remove them from the pan and let them rest.

3. Make the Green Curry

In the same pan, discard some of the duck fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons. Add the green curry paste to the pan and sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Then, pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine with the paste.

4. Season the Curry

Add the fish sauce and palm sugar to the coconut milk mixture. Taste your curry and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer it spicier, add more green curry paste. Allow the curry to simmer for about 5 minutes.

5. Add Vegetables

Incorporate your sliced vegetables into the curry and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp. This helps preserve their flavor and texture.

6. Slice the Duck

While your vegetables are cooking, slice the rested duck breasts into thin strips. This will ensure they soak up the flavors of the curry.

7. Combine Duck and Curry

Once the vegetables are cooked, gently fold the sliced duck into the green curry. Add the Thai basil leaves and let everything simmer together for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

To serve your Thai-style duck with spicy green curry, plate it over a bed of fragrant jasmine rice. Garnish with additional Thai basil leaves and a wedge of lime for an extra citrusy kick. Enjoy this irresistible dish with loved ones and savor the authentic flavors of Thailand!

Tips for Perfecting Your Duck Curry

  • Choose duck breasts that are high quality for the best flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different vegetables based on your preference.
  • For a milder curry, reduce the amount of green curry paste and balance with more coconut milk.

By following these steps, you will master the art of cooking Thai-style duck with spicy green curry, turning your kitchen into a haven of exotic flavors.