Western-Style Duck Curry: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Forget everything you think you know about curry. This Western-style duck curry offers a surprisingly simple yet deeply flavorful experience, a delightful twist on traditional recipes. Imagine tender, succulent duck meat infused with aromatic spices, simmered in a rich and creamy sauce – a dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend gathering. We've stripped away the complexity, focusing on fresh, accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques to create a truly unforgettable culinary journey.

This recipe balances the richness of the duck with the vibrant notes of easily sourced spices, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. The subtle sweetness complements the savory notes beautifully, creating a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to making this delicious Western-style duck curry.

Tools Needed

  • basin
  • scissors
  • mortar and pestle
  • cutting board
  • frying pan
  • curry pot

Ingredients

  • Duck meat (wings, thighs, calves): 1 kg
  • White wine: 1 tablespoon
  • Ginger: 20 crushed pieces
  • Salt: 1 tablespoon
  • Onion: 40g
  • Garlic: 40g
  • Lemongrass: 40g
  • Seasoning powder: 2 tablespoons
  • Sugar: 4 tablespoons
  • Curry sauce (jar type): 1-2 teaspoons
  • Curry powder (Indian brand Zum a prawn curry powder): 1 teaspoon
  • Sweet potatoes and taro: 400g
  • Onions (for garnish)
  • Lemongrass (for garnish): 4 sticks
  • Sticky rice blood (optional)
  • Fresh coconut water: 700ml
  • Water: 300ml
  • Coconut milk: 300ml
  • Fresh milk (low sugar): 220ml

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Duck

  • Wash the duck meat thoroughly. Add white wine and crushed ginger to help remove the fishy smell.
  • Soak the duck meat in warm, salted water for 5 minutes, then rinse again three or four times until the water runs clear.
  • Cut the duck meat into bite-sized pieces.
  • Grind onion, garlic, and lemongrass in a mortar.
Wash the duck meat thoroughly. Add white wine and crushed ginger to help remove the fishy smell.Soak the duck meat in warm, salted water for 5 minutes, then rinse again three or four times until the water runs clear.Cut the duck meat into bite-sized pieces.Grind onion, garlic, and lemongrass in a mortar.
Prepare the Duck
  • Marinate the duck meat with the ground mixture, salt, seasoning powder, sugar, curry sauce, and curry powder for 20 minutes.
Marinate the duck meat with the ground mixture, salt, seasoning powder, sugar, curry sauce, and curry powder for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Duck

Step 2. Cook the Curry

  • Cut sweet potatoes and taro into bite-sized pieces.
  • Lightly fry the potatoes until slightly browned.
  • In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and lemongrass until fragrant.
  • Add the marinated duck meat and stir-fry until firm.
Cut sweet potatoes and taro into bite-sized pieces.Lightly fry the potatoes until slightly browned.In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, and lemongrass until fragrant.Add the marinated duck meat and stir-fry until firm.
Cook the Curry
  • Add fresh coconut water and 300ml of water. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
  • Add the fried potatoes, coconut milk, fresh milk, and (optional) sticky rice blood. Stir gently and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat and cook for another 10 minutes. Add the onions and lemongrass for garnish. Season to taste.
Add fresh coconut water and 300ml of water. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.Add the fried potatoes, coconut milk, fresh milk, and (optional) sticky rice blood. Stir gently and bring to a boil.Reduce heat and cook for another 10 minutes. Add the onions and lemongrass for garnish. Season to taste.
Cook the Curry

Step 3. Garnish and Serve

  • Cut onions and lemongrass into pieces for garnish. Prepare sticky rice blood (optional).
  • Serve hot with noodles or bread.
Cut onions and lemongrass into pieces for garnish. Prepare sticky rice blood (optional).Serve hot with noodles or bread.
Garnish and Serve

Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe

Tips

  • Using warm water when washing the duck helps to clean it more effectively.
  • Rubbing ginger onto the duck skin helps remove the fishy smell.
  • Using fresh coconut water adds sweetness and flavor to the curry.
  • Adjust the cooking time according to the type of potatoes and taro used.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 2500-3000
  • Fat: 150-200g
  • Carbs: 150-200g
  • Protein: 70-80g

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of duck?

Yes! Duck breasts, legs, or even leftover roast duck work well. Adjust cooking time depending on the cut.

2. What if I don't have all the spices listed?

Don't worry! Feel free to substitute with what you have. The core flavors are the curry powder and ginger/garlic. Experiment!

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This curry tastes even better the next day. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.


This Western-style duck curry is a testament to the beauty of simplicity, showcasing how a few carefully chosen ingredients can create a truly exceptional dish. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it's sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!