Reading:
Crisp-skinned, succulent Assam duck with a rich, aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 duck (about 1.5 kg), patted dry
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup Assam tea leaves (or strong black tea)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 220°C.
2. In a small bowl, mix together oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander powder, turmeric powder and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the duck, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
5. While the duck is roasting, make the Assam sauce by steeping the tea leaves (or black tea) in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes or until strong and fragrant.
6. Strain the tea and discard the solids.
7. In a small pan, combine soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and the tea-infused liquid.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
9. Remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving.
10. Serve with the warm Assam sauce spooned over the top, garnished with fresh coriander leaves if desired.