Ingredients:
- 4 duck breasts;
- Salt and Pepper to taste;
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika;
- 1 tsp dried thyme;
- 1 tsp garlic powder;
- 1 tbsp olive oil.
Instructions:
- Start by taking your duck breasts out of the fridge and letting them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help ensure even cooking.
- Season the duck breasts on both sides with salt and pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Make sure to evenly distribute the spices on the meat.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- When the oil is hot, add the duck breasts to the pan, skin-side down.
- Let the duck breasts cook for about 5 minutes until the skin is crispy and browned. You don’t need to move them around as they cook.
- After 5 minutes, use tongs to flip the duck breasts over to the other side.
- Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 145°F. Check the temperature using a meat thermometer.
- Once the duck is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the duck breasts to a cutting board.
- Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicy and flavorful.
Serve the Smoked Duck Breast with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a salad. Enjoy!
Here are some ideas for side dishes to accompany this Smoked Duck Breast recipe:
- Roasted vegetables: Cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, or potatoes. They can be seasoned with herbs and spices to complement the flavor of the duck.
- Salad: A simple green salad, such as arugula or lettuce, or a fruit salad, such as an apple and nut salad.
- Mashed potatoes: Boiled and mashed potatoes with butter, milk, and salt for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Risotto: A mushroom risotto, for example, is a great option to balance the strong flavor of the duck.
- Grilled vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or onions are healthy and tasty options.
These are just a few suggestions, and you can choose the side dishes that best match your personal tastes. Enjoy!