Oven-Baked Duck Leg Quarters Recipe with Orange Glaze

Healthy Baked Duck Leg Quarters with Orange Glaze

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Cooking Baked Duck Quarters at Home

Possibly the most delicious baked duck leg quarters you’ve ever cooked!

➡️ Baked duck leg quarters are a delicacy that is often reserved for special occasions or for when you have the time to devote to a slow-cooked, oven-baked version. On this page, I share a way to cook duck legs in the oven more accessible and quicker to prepare compared to traditional recipes.

➡️ Baked duck legs are a tasty and healthy alternative to their deep-fried counterparts. Baking duck leg quarters in the oven doesn’t require any extra fat, so they are mostly just duck, which makes them a very healthy option!

➡️ Watch the cooking video below and learn more about cooking the baked duck leg quarters recipe! 👌

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How to Cook Baked Duck Legs in the Oven from Scratch

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➡️ Baked duck leg quarters are a simple way to prepare duck legs, often favored by those who dislike the fat and calories associated with deep-fried duck. They have a unique flavor and texture, somewhere between crispy and gelatinous.

➡️ Duck legs are usually quite cheap, and in this recipe, I am using duck leg quarters, which are usually cheaper than breasts. This is a great way to use up cheap cuts of meat, which are often tough and hard to cook well. Plus, baking duck legs in the oven is a great way to infuse them with the flavors you like without the need for adding much fat.

➡️ The duck with oranges is a traditional Chinese recipe, which is prepared completely differently from my recipe. I wanted to make a recipe featuring duck legs with orange flavor because it fits exceptionally well with duck meat. To my delight, the baked duck leg quarters recipe turned out perfectly and the end result is a combination of very tender duck meat and crispy orange-flavored skin!

➡️ Below are listed the needed ingredients and the cooking methods. Enjoy cooking the baked duck leg quarters recipe from scratch!

Baked Duck Leg Quarters with Orange Glaze

Prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary combination of flavors in this baked duck leg quarters with orange glaze recipe. The magic begins with the carefully selected duck leg quarters, known for their succulence and depth of flavor. As they slowly bake in the oven, the aromatic notes of herbs and spices permeate the air, arousing anticipation for the gastronomic feast to come.

The result is nothing short of perfection – tender, juicy meat encased in a tantalizingly crispy golden skin. With each bite, the savory richness of the duck unfolds, complemented by the subtle smokiness imparted during the baking process. The contrast of textures, from the succulent meat to the delightful crunch of the skin, creates a symphony of sensations on the palate.

To elevate this dish even further, a velvety orange glaze takes center stage. Crafted from the natural sweetness and tang of oranges, the glaze adds a vibrant burst of citrusy notes that harmonize beautifully with the savory flavors of the duck. As the glaze gently caramelizes, it forms a glossy, lacquered finish that enhances the visual appeal of the dish, making it a feast for the eyes as well.

The combination of the tender duck meat, crispy skin, and the alluring orange glaze creates a taste experience that is truly sublime. Each morsel is an explosion of flavors, with the umami richness of the duck beautifully complemented by the bright, tangy undertones of the citrus.

This extraordinary dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a culinary showstopper that will leave your guests in awe. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner party or seeking to impress a loved one with a memorable meal, these baked duck leg quarters with orange glaze are sure to be the star of the show.

So, step into your kitchen, armed with this exceptional recipe, and unleash your inner gourmet. Let the enticing aromas fill the air as you masterfully prepare this culinary masterpiece. Whether it's a festive gathering or a cozy night in, the combination of succulent duck, crispy skin, and the tantalizing orange glaze will transport your taste buds to new heights of culinary delight.

Indulge in the art of sophisticated dining and create an unforgettable culinary experience with these baked duck legs recipe. Elevate your appreciation for gourmet cuisine and savor each delectable bite. It's time to elevate your culinary repertoire and embrace the extraordinary.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 40

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories

Ingredients

4 duck leg quarters (about 800 g/28 oz)
some salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 tbsp granulated garlic or 2-3 cloves of garlic, crushed or chopped
4 tbsp orange jam or candied orange peel

Instructions

Coat the tray with aluminum foil so that you can seal the content, then place the duck legs inside.
Season the duck legs with salt on both sides to taste.
Season the upper side of the duck legs with ground black pepper and granulated garlic.
Seal the duck legs and place the tray in the oven at 220 C/430 F for about 30 minutes.
Unpack the duck legs and top each one with about 1 spoonful of orange jam or candied orange peel.
Place the tray back in the oven and roast the duck legs at 290 C/550 F until golden brown (10-15 minutes).

Video

https://koji.to/k/8Jd5

Notes

Cooking Tips:

Select High-Quality Duck Leg Quarters: Opt for fresh, high-quality duck leg quarters to ensure the best flavor and texture in your dish. Look for plump and well-trimmed leg quarters from a reputable source or local butcher.
Score the Skin: Before baking, score the skin of the duck leg quarters with a sharp knife. This helps to render the fat and allows for even crisping during the baking process. Be sure not to cut too deep into the meat.
Marinate for Flavor Infusion: Consider marinating the duck leg quarters before baking to enhance the flavors. Create a marinade using a combination of herbs, spices, and citrus elements such as orange zest and juice. Allow the duck to marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator to maximize flavor infusion.
Pat Dry for Crispy Skin: Just before baking, make sure to pat dry the duck leg quarters with a paper towel. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a crispier skin during baking. Dry skin promotes better browning and texture.
Rest Before Serving: After the duck leg quarters are baked to perfection, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a moist and tender result. Cover the duck loosely with foil to retain heat during the resting time. This step is crucial for achieving optimal texture and juiciness in each bite.

Keyword baked duck leg quarters recipe, baked duck legs recipe, baked duck legs with orange

Final Notes for the Baked Duck Leg Quarters Recipe

besides duck leg quarters, you can cook in the same way duck thighs, duck drumsticks, and even duck breasts
you can add more flavors to the recipe such as rosemary
orange jam can be replaced with other marmalade types like apricot jam, pear jam, or berry jam
serve the baked duck leg quarters with mashed potatoes as a side dish for a perfect culinary experience
pickled beet salad is one of the best choices with which to combine baked duck legs

➡️ Enjoy cooking baked duck legs from scratch! For additional info, read more on duck as food! Also, I recommend you to cook more delicious duck recipes featured in my cookbook The Duck Cookbook: Delicious and Savory Recipes for Every Occasion.

FAQs about Baked Duck Legs

What are baked duck legs?

Baked duck legs are a delicious and flavorful dish made from duck legs that are seasoned, baked in the oven, and cooked until tender and crispy. They offer a succulent and rich meaty experience.

Can I use frozen duck legs for baked duck legs?

Yes, you can use frozen duck legs for baked duck legs. Before cooking, make sure to thaw the duck legs completely in the refrigerator. This will ensure even cooking and prevent any potential food safety issues. Once thawed, you can follow the recipe instructions for seasoning and baking the duck legs to perfection. Enjoy your delicious baked duck legs!

What is the cooking time and temperature for baked duck legs?

The cooking time and temperature for baked duck legs can vary depending on the recipe and the size of the duck legs. As a general guideline, you can roast them at around 375°F (190°C) for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the skin is golden brown.

How can I ensure that the baked duck legs are moist and flavorful?

To ensure moist and flavorful baked duck legs, consider marinating them for a few hours or overnight to infuse the meat with the flavors. Basting the duck legs with their juices during cooking can also help keep them moist and enhance the taste.

What are some serving suggestions for baked duck legs?

Baked duck legs can be served as a main course alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with fruity sauces or glazes, such as orange or cherry sauce, for a delightful combination of flavors.