Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam
When I first stumbled upon the recipe for Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam, I was excited to create something truly special. It was a chilly fall evening, the kind that calls for a comforting, hearty dish. I remember the lovely aroma that fills the house as the duck legs roast to perfection, mingling beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry jam and the earthy tones of roasted napa cabbage. This dish quickly became a family favorite, especially during Thanksgiving gatherings. The rich flavors and tender meat combined with the crispy cabbage make for a meal that feels as cozy as a warm blanket on a cold night. I can just imagine everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories while savoring each mouthful. It’s moments like these that remind me of the joy that home-cooked meals can bring, and this dish captures that sentiment perfectly.
Recipe Snapshot
2 hr 15 mins
15 mins
120 mins
Hard
450 kcal
28 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
35 g
Frying Pan, Oven, Baking Sheet
What’s Great About This Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam
Elevated Comfort Food
There’s something about duck that instantly elevates a meal from ordinary to extraordinary. The rich, succulent flavors in Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam bring a sense of indulgence that makes it perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests.
Perfect Pairing
The combination of roasted napa cabbage and cranberry jam with the duck legs is simply divine. The sweetness of the cranberry jam cuts through the richness of the duck, creating a lovely balance that keeps you coming back for more.
Seasonal Delight
This dish shines during the fall, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or any cozy gathering. The flavors are so well suited to the season, and the presentation is stunning. Your table will look beautiful adorned with this dish.
Easy Yet Impressive
Despite its gourmet appearance, this recipe is surprisingly approachable. I love how simple the steps are, allowing both novice and experienced cooks to create something memorable.
Great for Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), the flavors intensify the next day. You can easily repurpose the duck into a salad or sandwich, making it a versatile meal.
Family-Friendly
Lastly, this dish is a hit with both adults and kids. With the richness of the duck and the sweet touch of the jam, even picky eaters find something to love. It’s a wonderful way to introduce your family to something new.
Main Ingredients for Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam

The ingredients for Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam are simple yet fulfilling. Each component adds something unique to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor and texture. The star of the show is, of course, the duck, which is paired perfectly with the roasted napa cabbage and a touch of cranberry jam for sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing.
- 2 duck legs – The main protein, the rich flavor of duck pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy cranberry jam.
- 1/2 Napa cabbage – A key player that adds crunch and a slightly sweet flavor when roasted.
- 80g butter – Adds richness and helps to achieve that golden, crispy skin on the duck legs.
- 2 tbsp cranberry jam – Brings a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the duck and cabbage.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- Pepper – Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
Recipe Directions for Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam

Cooking Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. Let’s dive into the steps to achieve this culinary masterpiece.
Start by preparing the duck legs. Clean them of any excess skin and fat, ensuring that they are ready to absorb all the wonderful flavors. Next, season generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as proper seasoning will enhance the taste of the duck.
Wrap the seasoned duck legs in baking paper, followed by aluminum foil. This helps to keep them moist while cooking. Place them in a preheated oven set to 180°C (356°F) and let them cook for about 2 hours. It’s important to add a little water to the pan to create steam, which will help keep the duck tender.
While the duck is cooking, prepare the Napa cabbage. Cut it into two pieces and spread soft butter on each half. Season with salt and pepper. The butter will help the cabbage caramelize beautifully.
After the duck has cooked for 2 hours, carefully remove it from the foil and place it in a baking tray along with the cabbage. Roast them together for about 10 minutes at a higher heat. You want the skin of the duck to turn a lovely golden brown and crispy, while the cabbage softens and its edges begin to blacken.
Once everything looks perfectly roasted, it’s time to plate up. Serve the duck legs alongside the roasted cabbage, and don’t forget to add a generous spoonful of cranberry jam on the side. This sweet component will complement the savory duck beautifully.
Things Worth Knowing
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the duck is cooked perfectly, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Rest the meat: Allowing the duck legs to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain their juices.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the duck seasoning for an extra flavor kick.
- Check for moisture: If the duck looks dry during cooking, add a bit more water to the pan.
Ways to Customize

There are many ways to make Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam your own. Here are some ideas:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked duck legs for future meals. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- Pairing: Serve with roasted potatoes or a mixed green salad for a complete meal.
- Add spices: Consider adding garlic or herbs like rosemary to the duck for additional flavor.
- Glaze options: Try a different fruit jam, like apricot or fig, if you want to switch things up.
Best Served With
The perfect sides can elevate Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam even further. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes complement the richness of the duck.
- Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans add a fresh crunch to your plate.
- Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice dish can soak up the flavors from the duck.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meal.
- Wine Pairing: Consider serving with a non-alcoholic sparkling drink for a festive touch.
- Seasonal Accompaniments: In fall, roasted root vegetables make a great side dish.
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam lies in its simplicity and the way it brings rich flavors together effortlessly. It’s a dish that embodies comfort and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering, as it’s sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the wonderful conversations that will follow around the table.

Roasted Duck Legs Roasted Napa Cabbage Cranberry Jam
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- 2 duck legs
- 1/2 Napa cabbage
- 80 g butter
- 2 tbsp cranberry jam
- salt
- pepper
Instructions
- Clean the duck legs of excess skin and fat and season with salt and pepper. Wrap them in baking paper, then in aluminum foil and cook in the oven for 2 hours at 180°C (356°F). Just make sure to add a little water in your pan/tray.
- Cut the Napa cabbage into two pieces, spread with soft butter and season with salt and pepper.
- Remove the duck thighs from the foil and place them in a baking tray with the Napa cabbage. Roast for about 10 minutes in a well heated oven until the skin on the duck turns golden brown and crispy, and the cabbage begins to soften and the leaves begin to blacken at the edges.
- To serve, add a little cranberry jam, which goes perfectly with roasted Napa cabbage and tender duck.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze cooked duck legs for future meals. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- Tip 3: Serve with roasted potatoes or a mixed green salad for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Consider adding garlic or herbs like rosemary to the duck for additional flavor.
- Tip 5: Try a different fruit jam, like apricot or fig, if you want to switch things up.


