Washington Cherrywood Smoked Duck on Arteflame

Introduction

Rich, smoky, and delicious, this Washington Cherrywood Smoked Duck Breast recipe uses the Arteflame grill to bring out the deep flavors of cherrywood smoke and golden-seared duck. With perfectly rendered skin, juicy meat, and bold smoky notes, it’s the perfect way to showcase delicious duck breast with a Washington cherrywood twist. This show-stopping recipe is reverse seared right on the Arteflame flat top and grilled center for unparalleled taste and presentation.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless duck breasts (preferably skin on, about 6-8 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cherrywood chunks (for smoke)
• Fresh chopped herbs (thyme or rosemary) for garnish, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

1. Place 3 paper napkins soaked with vegetable oil into the center of your Arteflame grill.
2. Stack seasoned firewood, including cherrywood, on top of the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow 20 minutes to build a solid bed of embers and heat the flat top and center grate. The center grill grate should reach over 1,000°F, perfect for searing.

Step 2: Prepare the Duck Breasts

1. Pat duck breasts dry with paper towel. Score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.
3. Set aside at room temperature while the grill heats up.

Step 3: Smoke the Duck

1. Place cherrywood chunks onto the embers to produce smoke.
2. Lay the duck breasts skin-side up on the outer ring of the flat cooktop cooktop where it’s medium hot.
3. Allow the duck to smoke gently for about 15 minutes until it reaches about 100°F internal temperature.

Step 4: Sear on the Center Grill Grate

1. Transfer the smoked duck breasts skin-side down onto the center grill grate over 1,000°F heat.
2. Sear for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
3. Flip and quickly sear the other side for 1 minute.

Step 5: Finish Cooking on the Flat Top

1. Move the duck breasts to the medium-heat zone of the flat cooktop.
2. Add a tablespoon of butter underneath each piece and continue cooking, basting occasionally with melted butter.
3. Cook until internal temp reaches 135°F (for medium rare), then remove from the grill at 120°F to allow rest time (approx. 15°F rise in temp).
4. Rest 5-7 minutes before slicing.

Tips

• Use a good-quality meat thermometer to get the perfect doneness.
• Let duck rest before slicing to keep juices inside.
• Place cherrywood chunks close to embers for consistent smoke.
• Butter adds richer flavor and helps with browning on flat top cooktop.
• Use the cooler edge of the cooktop for sauces or gentle warming.

Variations

1. Spicy Blackberry Duck: Replace brown sugar with chili flakes and glaze duck with blackberry puree during the final cook.
2. Maple-Mustard Duck: Rub duck breast with coarse mustard and brush on maple syrup near the end of cooking for a sweet-tangy twist.
3. Orange Glazed Duck: Add orange zest and juice to the seasoning and glaze with a reduced orange-balsamic sauce on the flat cooktop.
4. Asian-Style Duck: Use a soy-ginger marinade and finish with hoisin sauce glaze on the flat top during final cooking.
5. Herb-Crusted Duck: Add finely chopped rosemary, thyme, and sage to the seasoning rub for a fragrance-rich herbaceous flavor.

Best pairings

• Roasted root vegetables on the flat top with butter and thyme
• Grilled wild mushrooms with sea salt and garlic
• Grilled polenta cakes (made on the outer flat top)
• Washington Pinot Noir or Syrah
• Side salad with grilled pears and toasted hazelnuts

Conclusion

With crispy skin, bold cherrywood smoke, and buttery richness from the flat top, this Washington Cherrywood Smoked Duck Breast is a flavor-packed adventure cooked entirely on your Arteflame grill. It's simple, dramatic, and delicious every time. Whether you're hosting a holiday meal or treating yourself to something special, this recipe combines ease and elegance in one unforgettable dish.