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Pan-seared duck breast fillet served with a side of roasted vegetables

Pan-seared duck breast fillet

Indulge in the rich flavor of duck with this pan-seared duck breast fillet recipe. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it's a luxurious dish perfect for special occasions.

  • anonymous
  • Feb 29, 2024
20 min

Instructions

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Prepare the Duck Breast

  • Score the skin of the duck breast in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
  • Season both sides of the duck breast generously with salt and pepper.

Preheat the Pan

  • Place a dry skillet or frying pan over medium heat and let it preheat for a few minutes until hot.

Sear the Duck Breast

  • Once the pan is hot, place the duck breast skin-side down in the pan.
  • Sear for 6-8 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

Cook the Other Side

  • Flip the duck breast over and cook for an additional 4-6 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium, using a meat thermometer to check.

Rest and Serve

  • Remove the duck breast from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  • Slice the duck breast diagonally into thin slices.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy!

  • Relish the succulent and flavorful pan-seared duck breast fillet. Bon appétit!

Recipe notes

  • Score the duck breast skin to help render the fat and achieve a crispy skin.
  • Letting the duck breast rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
  • For extra flavor, you can season the duck breast with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or garlic before cooking.
  • Serve the duck breast with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fruity sauce for a complete meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 duck breast fillet
  • Pinch of salt and pepper to taste