Zesty Roast Duck with Orange Glaze

Ingredients:

1 whole duck (about 5-6 lbs)

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 large orange, sliced

1 medium onion, quartered

1-2 sprigs fresh rosemary (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Orange Glaze:

1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon orange zest

1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)

Directions:

1. Prep the Duck: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the duck dry and season inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Stuff the cavity with sliced orange, onion, and rosemary.

2. Score the Skin: With a sharp knife, score the skin in a crisscross pattern without cutting into the meat to help render fat and create a crispy skin.

3. Roast the Duck: Place the duck, breast side up, on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 1.5-2 hours, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the thickest part of the duck reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with the pan drippings.

4. Prepare the Orange Glaze: While the duck roasts, combine orange juice, honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer, stirring until the honey dissolves. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Glaze the Duck: In the last 20 minutes of roasting, brush the duck generously with the orange glaze. Repeat once more for a glossy finish.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cooking Time: 1.5-2 hrs | Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Servings: 4-6

Crispy skin and tangy-sweet glaze make this duck unforgettable!