Grilled Duck Kebabs Perfect for Outdoor Cooking: A Delight

Nothing beats the flavor of grilled duck when it comes to outdoor cooking. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or cooking on a camping trip, grilled duck kebabs offer a perfect balance of rich flavor and tender texture. The smoky aroma and savory taste are sure to impress your guests, and they’re surprisingly easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious way to cook duck, grilled kebabs are the way to go.

In this blog, we’ll share some tips and a simple recipe to help you create grilled duck kebabs that are a delight for your taste buds and perfect for your next outdoor cooking adventure.

Grilled Duck Kebabs

When making grilled duck kebabs, it’s important to start with the right kind of duck breast or duck breasts. If you have a few ducks left over from previous hunts, they can be perfect for making lighter, springtime dishes like grilled duck kebabs. Wild ducks such as mallards or wood ducks are perfect for grilling due to their tender meat and rich flavor. 

• Mistake to Avoid: Overcooking duck can make it dry. Duck should be cooked medium-rare to medium for the best texture and flavor. Keep this in mind when preparing your kebabs.

Marinating Duck Breasts for Flavor with Olive Oil

One of the best ways to enhance the flavor of your duck is through marination. A good marinade helps tenderize the meat while infusing it with delicious flavors. You can experiment with different marinades, but here’s a basic one to get you started:

Basic Marinade:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or rosemary)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Combine all the ingredients in a medium bowl, then add sliced duck pieces (cut into bite-sized chunks) to the marinade. Toss the duck pieces to coat evenly. Let the duck marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor. The longer the marination time, the more the flavors will penetrate the meat.

Tip:

• If you’re short on time, you can marinate the duck for 30 minutes at a minimum, but for the best flavor, aim for a longer marination.

Skewering the Duck with Wooden Skewers for Grilling

Once your duck has marinated, it’s time to prepare it for grilling as duck skewers. Skewering the duck will ensure even cooking and give you perfectly portioned servings.

• How to Skewer: Alternate pieces of duck with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms. The vegetables not only add flavor but also moisture to the kebabs, preventing the duck from drying out. If using kosher salt wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.

• Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Leave some space between the pieces of meat and vegetables so they cook evenly and get that beautiful char on the grill.

Grilling Your Duck Kebabs on a Medium Hot Grill

Now, for the fun part—grilling. Heat your grill to a medium hot grill and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grilling duck kebabs usually takes around 8-10 minutes, depending on the size of the chunks and your desired level of doneness.

• How to Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Be mindful not to overcook the sliced duck—aim for a slightly pink center for the best flavor and texture.

• Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 135-140°F for medium-rare to medium doneness.

Serving Your Grilled Duck Kebabs

Once your garlicky duck skewers are ready, it’s time to serve them up. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding softened garlic to your dipping sauces or drizzling it over the kebabs. They pair perfectly with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, grilled corn on the cob, or a hearty rice pilaf. For a more decadent meal, drizzle the kebabs with a balsamic glaze or a tangy citrus sauce to enhance the richness of the duck.

• Garnishing: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and extra freshness. Alternatively, sliced green onions can be used to add an Asian-inspired touch. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving adds a lovely bright note to balance the savory flavors of the duck.

Tip:

• Serve your duck kebabs with dipping sauces like a spicy mustard sauce or creamy ranch dressing to elevate the flavors even more.

Conclusion

Grilled duck kebabs are a delicious and unique way to enjoy waterfowl that will surely impress anyone you’re cooking for. With the right marinade, vegetables, and grilling technique, you’ll have tender, flavorful kebabs that showcase the best of outdoor cooking. Whether you’re preparing them for a summer barbecue or a camping trip, these grilled duck kebabs will be a crowd-pleaser every time.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s not only delicious but also an exciting way to prepare duck.

FAQs

How long should I marinate duck for grilled kebabs?

It’s best to marinate duck for at least 1-2 hours, but overnight is ideal for deeper flavor penetration. If you’re in a rush, 30 minutes will still give you a good result.

Can I use frozen duck for grilled kebabs?

Fresh duck is preferred for grilling, but if you only have frozen duck, make sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating and grilling to ensure even cooking.

What vegetables are best for duck kebabs?

Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms are great choices for duck kebabs, as they cook well on the grill and complement the rich flavor of the duck.

How do I know when my duck kebabs are cooked to the desired doneness?

Duck is best cooked medium-rare to medium, with duck fillets reaching an internal temperature of 135-140°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you reach the perfect doneness without overcooking.

Can I make grilled duck kebabs in advance?

While grilled duck kebabs are best served fresh, you can prep the kebabs in advance by marinating the duck and skewering the pieces. Just refrigerate until you’re ready to grill.