Duck à l’Orange Recipe – French Special

Looking to create a classic French-inspired dinner? This Duck à l’Orange Recipe features a succulent roast duck paired with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. Crispy skin, tender meat, and the vibrant flavor of fresh orange juice and zest make this dish a showstopper for special occasions, holiday meals, or gourmet home cooking. Serve with roasted vegetables or herb-garnished sides to enjoy the full elegance of this French cuisine recipe.

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time1 hr 20 min
  • Total Time1 hr 40 min

Duck à l’Orange Ingredients:

  • 1 whole duck (about 4–5 lbs / 1.8–2.3 kg)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 1 cup chicken or duck stock
  • 2 tbsp butter

Optional Garnish:

  • Orange slices
  • Fresh parsley

Duck à l’Orange Instructions:

1

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2

Season duck inside and out with salt and black pepper.

3

Place duck on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 1–1.5 hours until the skin is crispy and meat is cooked through.

4

While the duck is roasting, prepare the orange sauce: In a small saucepan, combine sugar and vinegar and cook until caramelized.

5

Add orange juice, zest, and stock, and simmer until slightly thickened.

6

Stir in butter for a glossy finish and season with salt and pepper to taste.

7

Remove the roasted duck from the oven, carve, and drizzle the orange sauce over the meat.

8

Garnish with orange slices and fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe Notes :

Ensure the duck skin is crispy by roasting at the right temperature and using a rack to elevate it.

Caramelize sugar carefully when preparing the orange sauce to avoid burning.

Use duck or chicken stock for a richer flavor in the sauce.

Stir in butter at the end for a glossy, smooth finish.

Garnish with orange slices and fresh parsley for a visually appealing presentation.