Duck Ragù With Creamy Polenta Recipe

Name: Duck Ragù With Creamy Polenta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 (4 1/2-pound) whole duck, cut into pieces, skin scored; Sea salt and cracked black pepper; 1 leek, white part only, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, sliced; 3 1/2 ounces smoked pancetta, chopped; 10 sprigs thyme; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/3 cup malt vinegar; 1 (14-ounce) can chopped tomatoes; 2 1/2 cups port; Amaranth leaves, to serve; 1 liter milk; 1 cup instant polenta; 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, chopped; 1/2 cup whipping cream; 1 1/2 cups finely grated Parmesan, plus extra to serve; Sea salt and cracked black pepper

Servings: persons

1 (4 1/2-pound) whole duck, cut into pieces, skin scored
Sea salt and cracked black pepper
1 leek, white part only, sliced
4 cloves garlic, sliced
3 1/2 ounces smoked pancetta, chopped
10 sprigs thyme
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/3 cup malt vinegar
1 (14-ounce) can chopped tomatoes
2 1/2 cups port
Amaranth leaves, to serve
1 liter milk
1 cup instant polenta
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, chopped
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 1/2 cups finely grated Parmesan, plus extra to serve
Sea salt and cracked black pepper

1
Heat a large heavy-based pot over medium heat. Add the duck, skin-side down, sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook for 7-8 minutes on each side or until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside. Drain the fat, reserving 1 tablespoon in the pot, and discard.
2
Add the leek, garlic, pancetta and thyme to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until browned. Add the tomato paste and vinegar and stir to combine. Add the tomatoes, port and the duck and bring to a boil. Cover with a tight-fitting lid, reduce the heat to low and cook for 1 hour 30 minutes or until the duck is very tender.
3
Remove the duck from the liquid and allow to cool slightly. Shred the meat, using 2 forks, discarding the bones and skin. Return the shredded meat to the pot, stir to combine and keep warm.
4
To make the creamy polenta, place the milk in a large pot over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the polenta and cook, whisking continuously, for 2-3 minutes or until thickened. Add the butter, cream, Parmesan, salt and pepper and whisk to combine. Divide the polenta among serving plates, then top with the duck ragu, amaranth leaves and extra Parmesan to serve.

545

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 17 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 (4 1/2-pound) whole duck, cut into pieces, skin scored, Sea salt and cracked black pepper, 1 leek, white part only, sliced, 4 cloves garlic, sliced, and more.

Yes, Duck Ragù With Creamy Polenta falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Duck Ragù With Creamy Polenta

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions