Duck is a luxurious and flavorful meat that pairs beautifully with a variety of sauces. One standout is the classic Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck. This tangy and slightly sweet sauce enhances the rich taste of the duck, creating a dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner at home.

Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck Overview

Delia Smith’s orange sauce is a harmonious blend of citrusy zest and sweetness, balanced with a touch of savory notes. It’s a versatile sauce that not only complements duck but also pairs well with other poultry and even vegetarian dishes.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh oranges, sugar, and a hint of vinegar creates a perfectly balanced sauce.
Elegant and Sophisticated: Impress your guests with a sauce that’s both simple to make and sophisticated in taste.

Versatile Pairing: While perfect for duck, this sauce can also be used with chicken, pork, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables.
Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appeal, the recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require extensive cooking skills.
Delia Smith’s Expertise: Following a recipe from a trusted chef ensures reliability and outstanding results.

Ingredients Needed for Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck

2 large oranges (juice and zest)
1 lemon (juice and zest)
50g (2 oz) sugar

150ml (5 fl oz) chicken stock
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon cornflour (cornstarch) mixed with a little water

Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck

Prepare the Citrus: Zest and juice the oranges and lemon.
Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, zest, sugar, chicken stock, and white wine vinegar.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce: Gradually add the cornflour mixture, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Final Touch: Let the sauce simmer for another few minutes until it reaches the desired consistency.

What Goes Well With Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck

Roasted Vegetables: The sweetness of roasted root vegetables complements the citrusy sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth texture contrast.

Steamed Green Beans: Adds a crisp, fresh element to your meal.
Wild Rice: Offers a nutty flavor that pairs well with the rich duck and tangy sauce.
Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the duck.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck

Use Fresh Citrus: Freshly squeezed juice and zest are key to achieving the best flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the sugar if necessary.
Simmer Gently: Avoid boiling the sauce too vigorously to prevent it from becoming too thick or bitter.

Thicken Gradually: Add the cornflour mixture slowly to control the thickness of the sauce.
Balance Flavors: Ensure a good balance between the sweet, sour, and savory elements.
Test Consistency: The sauce should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny.

Storing Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck: Best Practices

Cool Completely: Let the sauce cool completely before storing.
Use Airtight Containers: Store the sauce in airtight containers to maintain its freshness.
Refrigerate Promptly: Place the sauce in the refrigerator as soon as it has cooled.

Label and Date: Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
Short-Term Storage: The sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in portion-sized containers.

Reheating Delia Smith Orange Sauce for Duck: Best Practices

Reheat Gently: Reheat the sauce over low heat to prevent it from separating.
Stir Constantly: Stir the sauce constantly while reheating to maintain a smooth texture.
Microwave Option: Use a microwave-safe container and reheat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Add Liquid if Needed: If the sauce has thickened too much, add a little water or chicken stock to thin it out.
Taste and Adjust: After reheating, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 80 kcal

Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 1g

Fat: 0g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 100mg

Vitamin C: 60% of Daily Value

FAQs

How do you thicken Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck?

To thicken Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck, gradually add a mixture of cornflour (cornstarch) and water to the simmering sauce. Stir continuously while adding the cornflour mixture until the sauce reaches the desired consistency. This ensures the sauce thickens evenly without forming lumps.

Can you make Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck in advance?

Yes, you can make Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck in advance. Prepare the sauce as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently over low heat before serving, adding a little water or chicken stock if necessary to adjust the consistency.

What type of vinegar is used in Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck?

Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck uses white wine vinegar. This type of vinegar provides a subtle acidity that balances the sweetness of the oranges and enhances the overall flavor of the sauce without overpowering it.

How do you prevent Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck from becoming too bitter?

To prevent Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck from becoming too bitter, ensure you only use the zest (the colored outer layer) of the oranges and lemons, avoiding the white pith underneath. Simmer the sauce gently and taste it as it cooks, adjusting the sugar and seasoning to balance the flavors.

Final Words

Delia Smith’s orange sauce for duck is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of citrusy flavor that enhances the rich taste of duck. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making this sauce, and don’t hesitate to experiment with pairings to find your perfect combination.

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