Grilled Duck and Cherry Compacted Breadwich
Step aside fancy white-tablecloth restaurants; we're shaking things up with a smokin' delicious, portable, and messier version of cherries and duck combo. Forget the formalities, we're swapping the fine china for a crusty baguette, packing it with peppery greens, sweet cheese, and laying down our ultimate sandwich – the Smoked Duck and Cherry Pressed Masterpiece.
What You'll Need
- Smoked duck breast or any smoked, cured meat as a substitute
- A bagload of Bing cherries, pitted and halved
- Sherry vinegar
- A snowdrift of baby arugula leaves, rinsed and dried
- Olive oil
- A sweet French roll
- Sweet blue cheese (e.g., Gorgonzola dolce)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Let's Get Cookin'
- Preheat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium heat (around 350ºF).
- Mix cherries and vinegar in a small nonreactive bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then let it macerate for 10 minutes away from judgmental eyes. Toss the arugula leaves in a separate bowl with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Slice the roll in half horizontally, pull out the interior to create a pocket, and set aside.
- Combine cherries, arugula, duck, and cheese on the bottom half of the roll in that order, then top it with the cherry mixture, including any juices from maceration.
- Wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil, place it in the heated pan or grill, and weight it down with a heavy object (like a filled teapot or a frying pan).
- Grill until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted (around 10 minutes, turning over halfway). Let it rest for 3-4 minutes before slicing and devouring.
Beverage Pairing
Swap your everyday beer for a Benton Lane Pinot Noir from Oregon. The fruity, leafy undertones of this wine will complement the arugula nicely, embracing the delicious flavors of this sandwich in a loving (but firm) hug.
Need More Flavor?
- Meat Alternatives: Swap smoked duck for smoked turkey or smoked chicken breast, if you're feeling adventurous.
- Fruit Variations: Consider using fig or apricot jam instead of cherry jam for various flavor profiles.
- Cheese: Brie or goat cheese will add a creamy element that balances the smokiness of the duck.
- Bread Options: Opt for ciabatta or brioche for a different texture.
- Greens: Use spinach or add a hint of spice with peppery watercress.
- Spreads and Sauces: Add some sweetness with honey drizzle or some tanginess with balsamic glaze.
- Additional Flavors: Include caramelized onions or pickled cherries for an extra punch of flavor.
Don't forget to experiment with these variations to find your perfect version of the Smoked Duck and Cherry Pressed Masterpiece, because once you've tasted it, you'll never want to live without it. Enjoy!
Credit for the original recipe goes to the author, who presents a reimagined take on luxury dining with a Smoked Duck and Cherry Pressed Masterpiece. (recipe)
This sandwich combines nutrition in a unique way, with smoked duck, arugula, cherries, and blue cheese, while maintaining a focus on flavor. (nutrition, duck, blue cheese)
To further elevate your sandwich experience, consider pairing it with a bottle of Benton Lane Pinot Noir for an unforgettable meal. (Benton Lane Pinot Noir)
