Ingredients for Crispy Duck
1 whole duck (approximately 3-4 lbs)
2 tbsp turmeric powder
2 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground pepper
2 tbsp rice wine
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tsp five-spice powder
2 liters of oil for frying
Additional marinade: 1 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tsp sugar
Herbs for serving: lettuce, cucumber, tomato
Dipping sauce: 3 tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp minced chili
How to Make Crispy Duck at Home
Step 1: Prepare the duck
Rinse the duck with water and use salt and white vinegar to scrub the inside and outside of the duck to remove any gamey smell. Rinse again with clean water.
Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts on the duck’s skin (without cutting into the meat) to allow the marinade to penetrate and to make the skin crispier when fried.
Pat the duck dry with a clean towel or air dry.
Step 2: Marinate the duck
In a large bowl, mix together the turmeric powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, five-spice powder, rice wine, fish sauce, and sugar.
Rub the spice mixture all over the duck, inside and out. Massage the duck for about 5 minutes to ensure the marinade penetrates the meat.
Wrap the duck tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for the best flavor.
Step 3: Parboil the duck
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 tbsp of white vinegar and 1 tbsp of honey to the water.
Dip the duck into the boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then remove and let it drain. This step helps tighten the skin and makes it crispier when fried.
Step 4: Fry the duck
Heat 2 liters of oil in a deep pot or wok over medium heat. The oil should be enough to submerge at least two-thirds of the duck.
Carefully lower the duck into the hot oil and fry over medium heat, turning occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes, until the skin is golden and crispy, and the meat is cooked through.
Once the duck has reached the desired golden color, remove it from the oil and place it on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Prepare the dipping sauce
In a small bowl, combine the fish sauce, sugar, and lime juice. Add the minced garlic and chili, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Adjust the seasoning to taste (you can add a little water if you prefer a thinner sauce).
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Cut the duck into serving pieces and arrange them on a plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as lettuce, cucumber, and tomato.
Serve immediately with the dipping sauce while the duck is still hot and crispy. Enjoy the contrast of crispy skin and tender meat!
Tips for a Better Crispy Duck
Choose fresh duck that is not too old for tender and not chewy meat.
Maintain a medium heat when frying to ensure the skin crisps up without burning, and the meat remains moist.
Using honey and vinegar when parboiling helps give the duck a beautiful golden color and makes the skin crispier.
For a healthier alternative, you can air fry the duck at 180°C for 35-40 minutes, turning it halfway through.
We hope you enjoy making this restaurant-quality crispy duck at home!
