Sage Duck Breasts with Balsamic Honey Recipe
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: 2
This delightful recipe for Sage Duck Breasts with Balsamic Honey is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of duck with the aromatic, slightly sweet flavor of sage, enhanced by a balsamic honey sauce. Perfect for a special dinner or impressing guests, the dish is cooked on the stovetop in under an hour. The combination of buttermilk, Dijon mustard, and garlic in the marinade tenderizes the duck breasts, while the honey and balsamic vinegar sauce brings a delicious balance of sweetness and tang.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 3/4 cup |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 1/2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Honey | 2 tbsp |
| Duck Breasts | 2 breasts |
| Fresh Sage Leaves | 4 leaves |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 577.5 kcal |
| Fat Content | 25.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 311.9 mg |
| Sodium | 417.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24.7 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 23 g |
| Protein | 59.4 g |
Instructions
Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Whisk together until fully blended.
- Place the duck breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or container. Pour the marinade over the duck and seal.
- Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor infusion.
Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey and balsamic vinegar. Stir well.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook and reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
Cooking the Duck:
- After marinating, remove the duck breasts from the marinade, rinse gently under cold water, and pat them dry with paper towels.
- To prepare the duck for cooking, start by carefully separating the skin from the meat, creating a small pocket, beginning at one edge of the breast. Be cautious not to tear the skin. Place 2 sage leaves inside each pocket.
- Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the duck breasts by making diagonal cuts approximately 1/4 inch apart. Turn the breasts over and score in the opposite direction to create a crisscross pattern.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the duck breasts skin-side down. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the skin to become golden and crispy.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the duck is cooked through but still tender.
- Flip the breasts and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the duck breasts from the skillet and place them on a serving dish. Drizzle with half of the prepared balsamic honey sauce.
- Serve with the remaining sauce on the side for an added burst of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Marinating Time: While the recipe suggests marinating for 4 hours or overnight, the longer you marinate, the more tender and flavorful the duck will become.
- Duck Skin: Scoring the skin helps the fat render out and crisp up, creating a delicious texture that pairs perfectly with the richness of the duck.
- Doneness: Duck breast can be served medium-rare or medium, depending on your preference. For a medium-rare finish, the internal temperature should reach 130°F; for medium, aim for 140°F.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a balanced and elegant meal.
This Sage Duck Breasts with Balsamic Honey recipe brings together the complexity of duck, the earthy flavor of sage, and the sweetness of honey, all finished with a tangy balsamic sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this dish will add a touch of gourmet sophistication to any dinner table. Enjoy this stunning meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive celebrations!
