Espresso-Glazed Duck Breast with Blackberry Compote

Chef's Notes:

The garlic infused olive oil adds aromatic depth to both the duck and compote Don't overcook the duck - it should be pink and juicy inside The coffee balsamic vinegar creates a complex, slightly sweet glaze that complements the rich duck Fresh blackberries work best, but frozen can be substituted if thawed and drained

Ingredients

For the Duck

4 duck breasts (6-8 oz each), skin scored in crosshatch pattern
2 tbsp garlic infused olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

For the Espresso Balsamic Glaze:

1/3 cup coffee flavored balsamic vinegar
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp strong espresso or coffee
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt to taste

For the Blackberry Compote:

2 cups fresh blackberries
1/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp garlic infused olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 sprig fresh rosemary
Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

Fresh microgreens
Whole coffee beans (optional)
Additional blackberries

Directions

Prepare the Duck:

Remove duck breasts from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring to room temperature Pat dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat Place duck breasts skin-side down and cook for 6-8 minutes until skin is golden and crispy Flip and brush with garlic infused olive oil Transfer to 400°F oven for 6-10 minutes for medium-rare (internal temp 135°F) Rest for 5 minutes before slicing

Make the Espresso Glaze:

In a small saucepan, combine coffee balsamic vinegar, honey, and espresso Simmer over medium heat for 8-10 minutes until reduced by half Whisk in butter and Dijon mustard Season with salt and keep warm

Prepare the Blackberry Compote:

Heat garlic infused olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat Add blackberries and sugar, cook for 3-4 minutes until berries start to break down Add balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, rosemary, and salt Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened but still chunky Remove rosemary sprig and keep warm

To Serve:

Slice duck breasts diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces Arrange on plates and drizzle with espresso glaze Spoon blackberry compote alongside Garnish with microgreens and coffee beans if desired Serve immediately