Duck in honey-pepper sauce
4 servings
30 minutes
Duck in honey-pepper sauce is an exquisite dish of Chinese cuisine where the juicy meat of duck breasts is enriched with sweet and spicy notes of the sauce. In traditional Chinese gastronomy, duck holds a special place, and the combination of honey and pepper gives it a refined balance of flavors—caramel sweetness, delicate spiciness, and rich aroma. Roasted to a golden crust, the duck remains tender and juicy, while the spice-infused sauce makes it even more appetizing. The dish is perfect for festive gatherings as well as dinners with loved ones. It is served in portioned pieces or whole, generously covered with thick, aromatic sauce that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables.
1
Heat a large grill pan. Place the duck breasts skin-side down and sear until browned, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 6 minutes for medium doneness. Transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and keep warm.
- Duck breast: 2 pieces
2
Remove the fat from the pan and melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and chopped gherkins and sauté for 5 minutes. Add broth and honey and cook for 5 minutes until syrupy. Then add both peppers and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining butter. Season with salt and pepper.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 120 g
- Cornichons (gherkins): 3 pieces
- Chicken broth: 1 glass
- Honey: 1 tablespoon
- Pink peppercorns: 1.5 teaspoon
- Green peppercorns in brine: 1.5 teaspoon
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
3
The cooked duck can be sliced into thin portions or served whole, drizzled with sauce.