How to Cook Thai-Style Fried Duck with Garlic
Thai-style fried duck with garlic is a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. This flavorful recipe is perfect for those who enjoy robust flavors and crispy textures. Here’s how to prepare this delectable meal in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 whole duck (about 4-5 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 10-12 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Fresh pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Duck
Start by cleaning the duck thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness when frying. You can also trim any excess fat around the duck’s neck and tail.
Step 2: Marinating
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well to create a marinade. Rub this marinade all over the duck, ensuring it gets into all the crevices. For best results, let the duck marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Cooking the Duck
In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated duck in the pan. Fry the duck for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature of the duck reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Once the duck is cooked through, remove it from the pan and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat tender and juicy. While the duck is resting, you can use the remaining oil in the pan to quickly fry any leftover minced garlic until golden brown, for added flavor.
Step 5: Serving
Carve the duck into serving pieces and arrange them on a platter. Drizzle any remaining garlic oil over the duck and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with steaming jasmine rice and, if desired, a side of spicy chili sauce for dipping.
Conclusion
Cooking Thai-style fried duck with garlic may seem intimidating, but with the right approach, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. This dish is rich in flavor and sure to impress your family and friends at your next dinner gathering. Enjoy the crispy texture and the aromatic taste of garlic, all while experiencing the unique flavors that Thai cuisine has to offer.