Serves 4
60 min
Crispy Duck Cracklings With Za'atar and Sea Salt
Recipe GLPRa14dc990b2211f
Golden, crackling duck skin crisped to perfection and seasoned with aromatic za'atar spice blend and coarse sea salt. This Middle Eastern-inspired appetizer features rendered duck fat that becomes irresistibly crispy and flavorful. The combination of za'atar's herbaceous notes with the savory richness of duck creates an addictive snack or light main course.
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Ingredients
2 pounds Duck skin and fat, cut into 2-inch pieces
½ cup Water
1 tablespoon Za'atar spice blend
Coarse sea salt, to taste
Directions
Place the duck skin and fat pieces in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Add the water and set over medium heat.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally. The water will evaporate and the duck fat will render out, leaving behind small, increasingly crispy pieces of skin.
Once the water has evaporated and the pieces begin to brown and crisp, increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure even browning and crisping.
When the duck cracklings are golden brown and crispy throughout (they should be light and crackling when bitten), carefully pour off most of the rendered duck fat, reserving it for another use if desired.
Transfer the hot cracklings to a colander or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat and cool slightly.
While still warm, toss the cracklings with the za'atar spice blend and coarse sea salt to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Serve immediately while the cracklings are still warm and crispy.
