Roasted Duck with Cherry Sauce Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours

This Roasted Duck with Cherry Sauce Recipe is a perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. The rich flavors of the duck combined with the sweet and tart cherry sauce create a delightful dish that is sure to impress your guests.

The preparation involves simple techniques and allows you to enjoy a gourmet meal at home. The cherry sauce adds a festive touch, making this dish ideal for special occasions.

Elegant Roasted Duck with Cherry Sauce

This recipe features a succulent roasted duck, seasoned and cooked to perfection, served with a vibrant cherry sauce. The dish takes approximately 2 hours from start to finish and serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients

1 whole duck (about 4-5 pounds)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
1/2 cup red wine
1/4 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Duck: Rinse the duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the cavity and skin generously with salt and pepper. Rub olive oil over the skin.
Roast the Duck: Place the duck on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1.5 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the duck with its own juices every 30 minutes.
Make the Cherry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cherries, red wine, chicken broth, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. If desired, add the cornstarch mixture to thicken further.
Serve: Once the duck is done, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve slices of duck drizzled with cherry sauce and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.