Duck Bhuna | Duck Stew Recipe

Method:

1. Cleaning the Duck Meat

• Vinegar Soak: In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of white vinegar with 2 cups of water. Submerge the duck pieces in this solution and let them soak for 10–15 minutes. This process tenderises the meat and removes the strong, gamey odour.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the duck pieces under cold water several times to remove any residual vinegar.
• Removing Feathers: Use a small blow torch to singe any remaining feathers or pinfeathers. Hold the duck by the leg and pass the flame gently over the surface. Avoid lingering on one spot to prevent burning the flesh.

2. Building the Masala Base

• Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan or kharai heat ⅓ cup of cooking oil over medium heat, heat until it smokes lightly, then reduce the heat to temper the pungency.
• Sauté Whole Spices: Add the whole spices (cinnamon sticks, cardamoms, cloves, bay leaves, black peppercorns, mace, and black cumin) and fry until they release a fragrant aroma, about 1 minute.
• Fry the Onions: Add the sliced onions and fry until golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent uneven browning. This step is crucial for the base flavour of the curry.
• Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the garlic paste and ginger paste, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the raw smell disappears. Add salt to taste at this stage to help the onions and aromatics break down faster.
• Add Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and ¼ cup water. Stir well and cover the pan. Let it simmer on low heat until the tomatoes soften completely and the oil begins to separate from the mixture. This can take about 5–7 minutes.
• Incorporate Cashew Paste: Add the cashew nut paste or finely ground cashews, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes for a creamy texture.
• Mix in Ground Spices: Add the chilli powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander powders. Stir well to coat the mixture evenly.
• Bhuna Process: Continue cooking the masala over medium heat, adding small splashes of water to prevent sticking. Stir frequently and ensure the oil splits from the spice mixture. This step, which takes about 10 minutes, deepens the flavour of the curry.

3. Cooking the Duck

• Add the Duck: Increase the heat to high and add the cleaned duck pieces to the masala. Stir to coat the meat thoroughly with the spices. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the duck to release its natural juices.
• Simmer on Low Heat: Reduce the heat to low and add 2–3 slit green chilies. Cover the pan and let the duck simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally, being gentle to avoid breaking the meat. Add splashes of water as needed to maintain a saucy consistency.
• Final Simmer: Uncover the pan and cook on low heat until the oil floats to the top, indicating the curry is ready. Adjust the thickness of the sauce to your preference.

4. Final Touches

• Add Garam Masala: Stir in the freshly ground garam masala for a burst of flavour at the end.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh green chilies and fried onions (birista) for added texture and spice.