Flavors ~ Duck

The Flavor for this week is Duck. I thought for sure duck would not something that is easily found at the Piggly Wiggly. Surprise to me. . . In the freezer department. I am not sure about the quality of the duck~ although with enough of the cherries and red wine. . .

The Flavor Bible describes duck as 'loud' . . . which reminds me of Daffy Duck (I confess~ I never liked that cartoon) Bill was not excited about this weeks challenge; I don't think it had anything to do with the Daffy Duck.

Back to the flavor profile ~ Duck pairs nicely with citrus and fruits, with savory like rosemary and mushrooms, of course with Thai and Asian cuisine. In my recipe, I have capitalized the foods that are recommended by the Flavor Bible.
Duck Breasts with Cherries in Red Wine
3 Tbs SUGAR
2 Tbs water
1/2 cup dried CHERRIES
2 Tbs sugared GINGER
3 Tbs BALSAMIC VINEGAR
1 Tbs OLIVE OIL
2 boneless DUCK breasts
2 cloves GARLIC
1 1/2 cup MERLOT
1 ORANGE
Place the cherries and wine in a bowl and allow to soak.
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan, cook on low to melt the sugar. Bring to a boil and allow to come to a rolling boil for 4-5 minutes (do not stir). Remove from the heat and add vinegar and cherries (reserve the wine for later)stirring as needed. Set on a low heat and allow the fruit and juices to caramelize.
Heat olive oil, add minced garlic and cook until clear. Pan sear duck breasts 5 minutes on each side. Remove from heat and set aside. Add wine to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce by half, then add to the cherries. Continue to boil until it reaches a thickened consistency.
Serve duck breast sliced on a bed of oranges, with cherry sauce and orange zest.
I served mine with orange flavored cous-cous. . . and the rest of that bottle of wine
Waste Not ~ Want Not !
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Happy Cooking y'all~
Sandi