Caramelized Roasted Duck Legs Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon green tea rubs (a mixture of green tea leaves, sugar, and spices)
• 4 duck legs, skin on
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Optional: 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Green Tea Rubs:

• Combine the green tea leaves, sugar, and spices in a small bowl to create the green tea rubs. This mixture will be used to season the duck legs.

Season the Duck Legs:

• Pat the duck legs dry with paper towels. Rub each duck leg with the green tea rubs, pressing the rubs into the skin to ensure they adhere well.

Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

• In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
• Simmer the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Roast the Duck Legs:

• Place the seasoned duck legs on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the duck legs generously with the caramel sauce. Return the duck legs to the oven and roast for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and caramelized, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Finish and Serve:

• Remove the roasted duck legs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Transfer the duck legs to a serving platter.
• Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and, if desired, toasted sesame seeds.
• Serve the Caramelized Roasted Duck Legs immediately, enjoying the crispy skin and tender meat with the sweet and savory caramel sauce and the subtle hint of green tea from the rubs.