Duck Recipes For All Skill Levels

Duck is a popular protein throughout many parts of the world.

However, here in the United States, it is often relegated to holidays or the kitchens of adventurous cooks. Although duck meat is readily available, both online and in local stores, the intimidation factor remains.

It doesn’t have to.

Let us show you how easy and fun cooking duck can be. The best way to get started is to follow a recipe. Here at Maple Leaf Farms, we have a library of hundreds of recipes for you to choose from. The toughest choice will be deciding which one to start with.

First, it’s important to remember that recipes call for different types of duck meat. In general, the most popular cuts include:

• Roast half duck

• Half duck

• Duck breast

• Duck legs

And second, as you browse duck recipes, there may be some words you're unfamiliar with. As a quick reference, here are short definitions of a few key terms:

Confit - a slow cooking process in which the duck meat is cooked in its own fat

Render - to melt and clarify duck fat for use in cooking

Score - to cut criss-cross lines into the duck skin (not the meat), which speeds up the rendering process

Duck is for everyone. Whether you are a culinary professional or a curious home cook, we have recipes you will enjoy. With options ranging from easy to expert, you are guaranteed to find something that matches your skill level.

With its growing popularity, duck is a great option for distributors as well as retailers. When more duck meat is on more shelves, families can enjoy this delicious, healthy protein.

You don’t need to spend hours looking for the best duck cooking tips. From both the culinary industry and our very own Research & Development kitchen, we have compiled a list of “quack hacks” that will elevate your cooking experience.

Here are a few quick tips for Duck Breast:

• Start with a cool pan and put the duck breast skin-side down

• Heat on medium low to make the skin perfectly crispy

• Score and render the duck breast to remove up to 70% of the fat

• Save the rendered duck fat for side dishes like roast vegetables or mashed potatoes

• When grilling, use cherry wood for a flavor that’s smokey and savory

If you want to learn more and explore tips for different cuts, you can browse additional expert tips or watch instructional videos like this one.

Recipes Categories

Know exactly what you’re looking for?

Want to browse around and see what catches your eye?

Either way, our recipe categories will help you navigate the many options. To find your next delicious meal, visit our recipe page and filter.

If you want to take your mouth on a trip around the globe, browse recipes from different parts of the world.

Delicious duck fat is a welcome addition to numerous meals:

• Duck Duck Poutine is our twist on the Canadian classic. It’s a mix of savory and tangy flavors.

• Duck Fat Toast is a simple snack that will keep you full. You’ll also love experimenting with different jams and spreads.

• Duck Chili is a hearty meal that is packed full of flavor. Add or subtract ingredients to really make this chili your own.

Whether you’re entertaining or simply looking for a quick snack, there are plenty of side dish and appetizer recipes to consider. Here are a few favorites:

• Duck Fat Roasted Potatoes add a new spin to an old favorite by packing a flavorful punch. It’s a simple recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

• Duck Charcuterie Board allows you to be as creative as you want to be. Pair your favorite cheeses and wines with candied duck bacon, crispy duck breast, duck cracklings, and even duck liver mousse

• Duck Meat Balls are an easy option for any social event. By combining ground duck and duck bacon, you’ll get a snack that is full of flavor.

Soups are a great meal to match your busy life. By including duck, you have the makings of a delicious and healthy soup:

• Ginger and Leek Duck Chowder is packed with ingredients for a complex and satisfying taste. Chances are your family has never tried a soup like this.

• Wild Mushroom Duck Soup is balanced well between the flavor of mushrooms and the tang of red wine. With just eleven ingredients, it’s a simple soup to make.

• Duck And Tasso Gumbo is a filling soup that is full of both protein and vegetables. It’s the perfect meal choice on a cold day.

You have duck questions. We have duck answers. Here are some of the most common. If your question is not listed here, browse our FAQs page or contact us.

Can You Fry Duck?

Absolutely. Frying duck can give you a crispy, delicious meal. Watch this video to learn the step-by-step process, from preparation to the actual frying.

Can I Freeze Fresh Duck Meat?

Yes. Be sure to freeze before the sell-by date and the products should be good for up to two years.

Are Maple Leaf Farms Duck Products Gluten-Free?

Although a majority of our products do not contain gluten, our processing facility is not certified gluten-free. In addition, some of our appetizer products do contain gluten. If you have questions about a specific product, please call 800-348-2812.

How Do I Defrost Duck?

It is best to defrost your duck in the refrigerator. Frozen breasts can thaw overnight, but whole ducks can take two days or more.

What Breed Of Ducks Do You Sell?

Here at Maple Leaf Farms, we only offer White Pekin Ducks. Why? This particular breed is known for its mild flavor compared to other breeds which can be considerably gamey.