Every time I eat out at a restaurant, if it’s on the menu, I eat duck.  It’s one of those things that I don’t usually cook for my family.  In fact, this was my first time, and it didn’t disappoint. 

Many of the duck products at the grocery store are covered in marinades that contain high levels of refined cane sugar and preservatives. So when I spotted plain duck breast (without the nasties), I jumped at the opportunity to create a keto inspired dish.

Spices to Warm the Soul

In this recipe, the duck is rubbed with garam masala, a combination of ground spices used in extensively in Indian food.  The garam masala adds warmth, sweetness, and floral notes.  The addition of black pepper to the spice adds a little heat without making it too hot. 

Sweet Sweet Sauce

When I think of duck, I always imagine the sweet sauce that accompanies it.  The balsamic glaze in this recipe is super simple and ticks all of the keto boxes.  Spring onions add depth to the sauce, and adding bone broth packs it full of nutritional goodness.

This recipe is a true winter warmer and is perfect for dinner or lunch.  It only takes 30 minutes to make, so it can be made easily during a busy weeknight.

Cooking Tips

Many people find duck to be a little bit fiddly to cook.  First, you need to make sure the skin is scored. This helps the fat to render down faster.  Second, you need to cook it low and slow, so the meat is super tender.  Ideally, it should be eaten medium-rare, as overcooking will make the meat tough.

In this recipe you start on the stovetop and then add it to the oven to finish.  You will need to make sure you have a pan that can be transferred to the oven.  If not, you will need to pre-warm a sheet pan to transfer it to.

This dish goes beautifully with steamed broccolini and zucchini.  But it would also go well with a cauliflower mash or cauli-rice.