German Grilled Duck Breast with Orange Glaze

Introduction

Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seared, this German-inspired grilled duck breast with orange glaze is cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. Using the reverse sear method, we lock in every drop of deliciousness while achieving a gorgeous caramelized crust. The natural sweetness of the orange glaze enhances the rich taste of the duck, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 duck breasts
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp orange zest

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Prepare the Duck Breast

1. Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the duck breast in a crisscross pattern.
2. Season both sides of the duck with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Make the Orange Glaze

1. On the Arteflame cooktop, melt butter near the outer edge.
2. Add orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and orange zest.
3. Simmer until the glaze thickens, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Sear the Duck

1. Place the duck breast skin-side down on the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 2-3 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
3. Flip and sear the other side for 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Cook to Doneness

1. Move the duck breast to the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
3. Brush generously with the orange glaze as it cooks.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the duck when the temperature is 115°F (it will continue cooking).
2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Drizzle with extra glaze and serve immediately.

Tips

• Always let the meat rest before slicing to retain juices.
• If the skin isn't crispy enough, sear it a few extra seconds.
• Adjust cook times based on your preferred doneness.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect cooking.

Variations

1. Spicy Orange Glaze: Add 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for extra heat.
2. Herb Citrus Glaze: Infuse fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
3. Ginger-Infused Glaze: Add a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a warm depth of flavor.
4. German Beer Glaze: Replace half of the orange juice with a dark German beer for a malty richness.
5. Balsamic Orange Glaze: Replace soy sauce with balsamic vinegar for a tangy balance of sweetness.

Conclusion

Mastering grilled duck breast on the Arteflame delivers crispy skin, juicy meat, and a caramelized orange glaze that pairs perfectly. Follow the reverse sear method, use the best ingredients, and impress your guests with a restaurant-worthy masterpiece.

Best Pairings

• German potato salad
• Grilled asparagus
• Red cabbage slaw
• A full-bodied German Riesling or a dark German Dunkel beer