Duck with Cumberland sauce is a classic and flavorful dish that combines tender roasted duck with a tangy and sweet sauce. This recipe provides simple steps to create a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner at home. The duck portions are seasoned with salt and pepper, then roasted until the juices run clear. Meanwhile, the Cumberland sauce is prepared by simmering lemon and orange juices with their zests, redcurrant jelly, port, and a pinch of ground ginger. The resulting sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and complements the rich flavors of the duck perfectly. Once the duck is cooked, it is transferred to a serving plate and kept warm. The cooking juices from the roasting tin are used to create a flavorful sauce by adding brandy and the prepared Cumberland sauce. The sauce is then served alongside the duck, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 duck portions
- Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Grated zest and juice of 1 large orange
- 4 tablespoons redcurrant jelly
- 4 tablespoons port
- Pinch of ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon brandy
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas mark 5.
- Place a wire rack in a roasting tin. Prick the duck portions all over with a fork and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. Place the duck portions on the rack and cook them in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes or until the juices run clear.
- In a saucepan, simmer the lemon and orange juices and zests together for 5 minutes. Stir in the redcurrant jelly until melted, then add the port. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the ground ginger and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the cooked duck to a large serving plate, ensuring it is kept warm. Pour away the fat from the roasting tin, leaving the cooking juices. Place the roasting tin over a low heat and stir in the brandy, bringing it to a boil. Stir in the prepared Cumberland sauce and serve it with the duck.
YIELD: Serves 4
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Pricking the duck portions with a fork helps to release the excess fat and allows for more even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the duck while roasting to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become dry.
- Adjust the seasoning of the Cumberland sauce according to your taste preferences by adding more salt, pepper, or ginger if desired.
TIPS:
- Serve the duck with Cumberland sauce alongside roasted vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added freshness and presentation.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a knob of butter to the Cumberland sauce just before serving, stirring it until melted and incorporated.
- Make sure to slice the duck portions before serving to make it easier for your guests to enjoy.
In conclusion, duck with Cumberland sauce is a classic dish that combines tender roasted duck with a tangy and sweet sauce. This recipe provides straightforward instructions to create a flavorful and elegant dish that is perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner at home.
The duck portions are seasoned with salt and pepper, then roasted until the juices run clear. Meanwhile, the Cumberland sauce is prepared by simmering lemon and orange juices with their zests, redcurrant jelly, port, and a pinch of ground ginger. The resulting sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and complements the rich flavors of the duck perfectly.
Once the duck is cooked, it is transferred to a serving plate and kept warm. The cooking juices from the roasting tin are used to create a flavorful sauce by adding brandy and the prepared Cumberland sauce. This sauce is then served alongside the duck, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.
Serve this delicious duck with Cumberland sauce alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness and presentation.
Enjoy the delightful combination of tender duck and tangy sauce in this classic dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special meal, duck with Cumberland sauce is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
