Crispy-Skinned Asian-Style Duck Breast

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, bean sauce, double dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, minced ginger, sugar, five-spice powder, salt, and a pinch of white pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is well-blended.

2. Prepare the Duck Breasts

Rinse the duck breasts under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Place the duck breasts skin-side up on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to score the skin in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.

3. Marinate the Duck Breasts

Place the scored duck breasts in a small roasting pan. Pour the marinade over the duck, making sure to rub it into the scored skin and all over the meat. Cover the pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil and let the duck marinate in the refrigerator for two hours, turning the breasts over halfway through the marinating time to ensure even coverage.

4. Preheat the Oven

About 20 minutes before the marinating time ends, preheat your oven to 450ºF. This ensures the oven is hot enough to start the cooking process immediately.

5. Bake the Duck Breasts

Once the duck has marinated, turn the breasts so they are meat side up. Baste them with some of the marinade and place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake the duck breasts at 450ºF for 10 minutes. This initial baking time will cook the meat evenly.

6. Crisp the Skin

After 10 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 550ºF. Carefully turn the duck breasts so they are skin side up. Bake for another 10 minutes. The higher temperature will help to crisp up the skin, which is what we’re looking for. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are brown and the skin looks crisp.

7. Rest and Serve

Turn off the oven and let the duck breasts rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays moist. Serve the duck breasts with the pan sauce drizzled over them.