How to Make Thai-Style Marinated Duck with Thai Herbs
Thai-style marinated duck is a flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine through a harmonious blend of spices and herbs. This recipe emphasizes the natural flavors of duck while infusing it with aromatic Thai herbs, creating a delicious meal that is perfect for any occasion. Follow these steps for a delightful culinary experience.
Ingredients
To prepare Thai-style marinated duck, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 whole duck (about 4-5 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 4-6 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
- 1 bunch fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Duck
Begin by cleaning the duck thoroughly. Rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make small incisions in the skin to allow the marinade to penetrate deeply, which enhances flavor and helps the fat render out during cooking.
2. Create the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, minced garlic, chopped chilies, black peppercorns, and coriander seeds. Mix well to dissolve the sugar.
3. Add the Aromatic Herbs
To the marinade, add the torn kaffir lime leaves, Thai basil leaves, and chopped lemongrass. Squeeze the juice of the limes into the mixture and stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Marinate the Duck
Take the prepared duck and place it in a large dish or a zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the duck, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This slow marinating process allows the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.
5. Cook the Duck
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the duck from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the duck on a roasting rack in a baking dish. You can save the marinade for basting or making a sauce later.
Roast the duck in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size, or until the skin is crispy and the juices run clear. Baste the duck with the marinade every 30 minutes to keep it moist and add extra flavor.
6. Let it Rest
Once the duck is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a succulent and tender result.
7. Serve and Enjoy
After resting, carve the duck and serve it with the remaining marinade or a side of dipping sauce. Pair it with jasmine rice and fresh vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with additional Thai basil or lime wedges for an extra touch of freshness.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delicious Thai-style marinated duck that showcases the rich flavors and aromas of Thai cuisine. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering or for a special family dinner!