Belgian Grilled Duck Legs with Orange Glaze

Introduction

Crispy, caramelized duck legs coated in a tangy orange glaze—perfectly seared on the Arteflame grill. By searing the duck at 1,000F on the center grill grate, we lock in all the juice and flavor before finishing it to tender perfection on the flat cooktop. This technique creates a restaurant-quality dish right in your backyard!

Ingredients

• 4 duck legs
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp orange zest
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
3. Allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the griddle reaches optimal grilling temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the orange glaze

1. In a bowl, mix orange juice, orange zest, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and sea salt.
2. Stir well and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the duck legs

1. Place duck legs skin-side down on the center grill grate at 1,000F.
2. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Step 4: Move to the cooktop

1. Transfer the seared duck legs to the flat cooktop.
2. Use butter to enhance the flavor as the duck continues cooking.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165F.

Step 5: Glazing the duck

1. Brush the orange glaze onto the duck legs during the final 5 minutes of cooking.
2. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly for extra depth of flavor.

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the duck when the internal temperature reaches 150F (it will continue cooking after removal).
2. Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve with extra glaze.

Tips

• Pat the duck legs dry before grilling to help crisp up the skin.
• Move the duck toward the outer edge of the Arteflame cooktop if it cooks too quickly.
• The caramelized glaze adds sweetness; pair with smoky grilled vegetables for balance.

Variations

1. Maple Bourbon Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup and add 1 tbsp bourbon for a richer flavor.
2. Spicy Citrus: Add 1 tsp chili flakes or Sriracha to the glaze for a spicy kick.
3. Herb-Infused: Add fresh thyme and rosemary for a fragrant twist.
4. Sweet and Tangy Balsamic: Replace orange juice with balsamic vinegar for a deeper caramelized coating.
5. Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin sauce instead of honey and add sesame seeds for an Asian twist.

Conclusion

Using the Arteflame grill allows you to create a beautifully crisp and juicy duck right in your backyard. The searing power of the center grill grate locks in moisture, while the controlled heat zones of the cooktop ensure a perfectly finished dish. Grill, glaze, and enjoy!

Best pairings

• Grilled Brussels sprouts
• Butter-glazed carrots
• Herb-roasted potatoes
• A glass of Belgian-style witbier
• Warm, crusty French bread