What to serve with duck breast
Duck breast is a versatile and luxurious meat that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Whether you’re looking to create a rich and decadent meal or a light and refreshing dish, there are plenty of options to consider. In this article, we will explore some of the best sides and sauces to serve with duck breast to provide inspiration for your next culinary adventure.
1. Orange Sauce
Orange sauce is a classic accompaniment to duck breast. The high fat content of the duck is complemented by the tart and citrusy flavors of the orange sauce. You can make a simple orange sauce using concentrated orange juice or fresh orange juice with pulp and zest for added flavor.
2. Potato Dauphinoise
Potato Dauphinoise is a rich and creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with duck breast. The crispy top and creamy interior of the dish create a delightful contrast to the tender meat. Made with layers of sliced potatoes, cream and garlic, Potato Dauphinoise is a decadent accompaniment to the richness of duck breast.
3. Red Currant Gravy
For a touch of sweetness, consider serving duck breast with a currant sauce. The sweet and tangy flavors of the currants pair beautifully with the dark meat of the duck. You can make an easy redcurrant sauce by deglazing the pan with hot water, adding redcurrant jelly, and simmering until thickened.
4. Sweet glazed carrots
Sweet glazed carrots provide a balance of sweet and savory flavors to complement the richness of the duck breast. Baby carrots cooked with butter, honey and fresh parsley create a bright and flavorful side dish. For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle a little sugar over the cooked carrots.
5. Sticky Sauce
Duck breast is enhanced by a sweet and sticky sauce. A combination of balsamic vinegar, crushed garlic, honey and lemon juice creates a delicious marinade that infuses the duck breast with flavor. When cooked, the marinade forms a sticky sauce that gives the meat a delicious glaze.
6. Sweet Potato Mash
The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs well with the rich flavors of duck breast. To make sweet potato mash, simply peel and chop sweet potatoes, boil until tender, then mash with butter and seasonings. The creamy, flavorful sweet potato mash is a great complement to duck breast.
7. Grilled Asparagus
Grilled asparagus adds a fresh and crunchy element to a duck breast dish. Tossed in olive oil, garlic and lemon juice, grilled asparagus becomes tender and brings out a delicate sweetness. This low-calorie and nutrient-rich side dish is a healthy addition to your meal.
8. Spinach and Pomegranate Salad
A spinach and pomegranate salad brings a light and fresh component to your duck breast dish. The sweet and tart flavors of the pomegranate seeds complement the rich meat. Toss baby spinach leaves, sautéed mushrooms, and sliced radishes together and top with a soy-honey dressing for a vibrant and flavorful side dish.
9. Brussels Sprouts
When prepared properly, Brussels sprouts can be a delicious accompaniment to duck breast. When cooked in duck fat, Brussels sprouts develop a savory and nutty flavor that pairs well with the meat. After pan-searing the duck breast, cook the chopped Brussels sprouts in the fat and juices left in the pan until they are tender and beginning to brown.
10. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf adds a comforting and hearty element to a duck breast dish. Enhance the flavors of the pilaf by adding dried fruit, such as cranberries and sultanas, and sliced almonds for a delicious crunch. This side dish will keep you full longer, making it a satisfying addition to your meal.
11. Sweet Chili
For a touch of heat and sweetness, make a homemade sweet chili sauce to accompany your duck breast. Sauté minced garlic and chili in olive oil, then add water and sugar to create a flavorful base. Finish the sauce by adding cherry tomatoes and a small amount of balsamic vinegar for a balanced and tangy flavor.
In conclusion, there are many delicious ways to serve duck breast. From classic pairings like orange sauce and potato dauphinoise to more adventurous choices like pomegranate salad and sweet chili, the flavors and textures of these sides and sauces enhance the richness of duck breast. Whether you prefer a decadent and indulgent meal or a lighter and more refreshing dish, these ideas will help you create a memorable dining experience. So there you have it – a range of delicious sides and sauces to accompany your duck breast. From the classic combination of orange sauce to the indulgent potato dauphinoise, each option brings its own unique flavors and textures to enhance the richness of the meat. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, tangy or savory, these pairings are sure to take your duck breast dish to new heights. Enjoy the culinary adventure of exploring different combinations and discovering your own personal favorites. Happy Cooking!
FAQS
What is the best way to cook duck breast?
Answer: The best way to cook duck breast is to first pan-sear it to crisp the skin and then finish it in the oven to ensure tender, juicy meat.
What sauces go well with duck breast?
Answer: There are several sauces that pair well with duck breast, including orange sauce, currant sauce, and sweet chili sauce. These sauces complement the rich flavors of the meat and add a delightful burst of flavor.
Can I serve duck breast with vegetarian accompaniments?
Answer: Absolutely! Vegetarian sides such as roasted vegetables, sweet potato mash, and grilled asparagus are excellent accompaniments to duck breast. They add a variety of flavors and textures to the dish.
How do I keep duck breast from tasting too gamey?
Answer: To prevent duck breast from tasting too gamey, you can pair it with sauces or garnishes that have sweet or tangy flavors. The acidity and sweetness will help balance the inherent gaminess of the meat.
Can I make any of the side dishes ahead of time?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare some side dishes ahead of time. Dishes such as Potato Dauphinoise and Sweet Potato Mash can be partially cooked and then finished in the oven when needed. This allows for easier meal preparation and timing.