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Duck Confit

Duck Confit

French duck legs slow-cooked in their own fat until tender, then crisped. Rich, decadent, and classic.

30
Prep (min)
60
Cook (min)
90
Total (min)
4
Servings
Health Score75/100

Ingredients

  • •8 pieces Duck legs
  • •1 teaspoon Salt
  • •4 cups Duck fat
  • •0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
  • •3 tbsp Coarse salt
  • •2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • •8 sprigs Fresh thyme
  • •3 cloves Garlic
  • •4 leaves Bay leaves
  • •1 medium Onion
  • •1 tbsp Black peppercorns
  • •2 tbsp Orange zest
  • •0.25 cup Cognac
  • •2 medium Shallots

Instructions

  1. 1

    Rub duck legs generously with coarse salt, thyme, and peppercorns

    💡 Salt draws moisture out and seasons deeply

  2. 2

    Layer duck in container with garlic, bay leaves, and orange zest

    💡 Stack tightly for even curing

  3. 3

    Refrigerate for 24-48 hours uncovered

    💡 The skin dries out creating crispy texture later

  4. 4

    Rinse off excess salt, pat completely dry

    💡 Any moisture prevents crispiness

  5. 5

    Submerge in duck fat in heavy pot, add shallots and cognac

    💡 Fat must fully cover the duck

  6. 6

    Cook at 300°F for 4-6 hours until tender

    💡 Low temperature renders fat without drying meat

  7. 7

    Finish skin-side up under broiler until golden and crispy

    💡 Serve immediately - skin loses crunch fast