Duck confit is a French culinary technique that involves preserving duck legs in their own fat. The legs are seasoned with salt and pepper, then cooked slowly in their own fat until they are tender and fall off the bone. This recipe takes the classic duck confit technique and adds a twist by using coconut milk and cayenne pepper to create a flavorful and exotic dish.
The origins of duck confit can be traced back to the southwestern region of France, where it was traditionally used as a way to preserve duck meat during the winter months. The legs were salted and packed into crocks, then covered with their own fat and cooked slowly over a low heat. This process would help to preserve the meat for months, and the resulting dish was both delicious and nutritious.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 60 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
4 duck legs
2 tbsp coconut oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can coconut milk
2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat coconut oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
Season duck legs with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, turmeric, and cumin.
Place duck legs in the skillet, skin side down, and sear until browned.
Pour coconut milk over the duck legs and bring to a simmer.
Cover the skillet and transfer to the oven. Bake for 1 hour or until duck is tender.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your Cayenne Coconut Curry Duck Legs!
Why It Works
The combination of coconut milk and cayenne pepper adds a unique and flavorful twist to the classic duck confit technique.
The duck legs are cooked slowly in their own fat, which helps to keep them moist and tender.
The coconut milk adds a rich and creamy flavor to the dish, while the cayenne pepper provides a subtle heat.
The dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.