How To Grill Whole Duck On A Gas Grill

Grilling a whole duck on a gas grill can be a delightful and delicious experience. The rich, succulent meat of a duck can be enhanced by the smoky flavor that grilling imparts. If you're new to grilling duck or just looking for some tips to improve your technique, you've come to the right place. Follow these simple steps to grill a whole duck on your gas grill and impress your family and friends with a mouthwatering culinary creation.

Preparing the Duck

Before you begin grilling, it’s important to properly prepare the duck. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Thaw the Duck: If your duck is frozen, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before you start grilling.

2. Remove Excess Fat: Ducks can have a thick layer of fat under the skin. Use a sharp knife to score the skin and trim any excess fat, leaving a thin layer to add flavor and moisture.

3. Season the Duck: Generously season the duck with your choice of herbs, spices, and marinade. Common choices include salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and orange zest.

Preparing the Gas Grill

Now that your duck is ready, it’s time to prepare the gas grill for cooking:

1. Preheat the Grill: Turn on the gas and preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature, around 350-375°F (175-190°C).

2. Create Indirect Heat Zones: For a whole duck, it's best to use indirect heat. If your grill has multiple burners, light only one or two of them and leave the others off. This will create a zone for direct and indirect heat.

3. Add Flavorful Wood Chips: For an extra layer of smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to the grill. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then place them in a smoker box or aluminum foil pouch and poke some holes in it to allow the smoke to escape.

Grilling the Duck

With the duck prepared and the grill ready, it’s time to start grilling:

1. Place the Duck on the Grill: Put the duck on the grill over the indirect heat zone, with the breast side facing up. Close the lid of the grill to let the heat and smoke work their magic.

2. Monitor the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the duck. It's important to cook the duck to at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.

3. Rotate and Baste: Every 30 minutes, rotate the duck to ensure even cooking. You can also baste the duck with a flavorful liquid, such as a mixture of honey and soy sauce, to add moisture and enhance the flavor.

4. Rest and Carve: Once the duck reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Serving the Grilled Duck

Now that your grilled duck is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Consider pairing the duck with complementary sides and sauces, such as roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a tangy cherry sauce. The rich, savory flavor of the duck pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, so feel free to get creative with your serving choices.

By following these simple steps, you can grill a whole duck on your gas grill and create a memorable dining experience for yourself and your guests. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll be rewarded with tender, flavorful duck that's sure to impress. So fire up the grill, prepare your duck, and get ready to savor the delicious results of your grilling prowess.