Duck eggs are a hidden gem in the culinary world, offering a rich flavour and creamy texture that can elevate everyday recipes to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to experiment, these 12 creative duck egg recipes will inspire you to explore the versatility of this unique ingredient. From breakfast classics to indulgent desserts, there’s something for everyone in this collection of duck egg delights.
1. Classic Duck Egg Omelette: A Simple Yet Delicious Way to Enjoy Duck Eggs
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that showcases the natural richness of duck eggs. The classic duck egg omelette is a perfect introduction to cooking with these flavourful eggs.
To create this duck egg delight, begin by whisking two duck eggs in a bowl until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat a knob of butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is slightly foamy, pour in the whisked duck eggs.
As the eggs begin to set, use a spatula to gently push the edges towards the centre, allowing the uncooked egg to flow to the sides. When the omelette is nearly set but still slightly runny on top, add your favourite fillings. Classic options include grated cheese, diced ham, and sautéed vegetables. Fold the omelette in half and cook for another minute until the cheese melts and the eggs are fully set.
The result is a luxuriously creamy omelette with a rich, satisfying flavour that sets it apart from its chicken egg counterpart. The duck egg’s larger yolk contributes to a more velvety texture, making this simple dish feel truly indulgent.
Serve your duck egg omelette immediately, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Pair it with whole-grain toast and a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast that will keep you energised throughout the morning.
This classic duck egg recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or a leisurely weekend brunch. Once you’ve mastered the basic technique, feel free to experiment with different fillings and seasonings to create your own signature duck egg omelette.
2. Duck Egg Carbonara: A Creamy Pasta Dish Elevated with Duck Eggs
Transform your pasta nights with this luxurious duck egg carbonara. This classic Italian dish takes on a new level of richness when prepared with duck eggs, creating a truly indulgent comfort food experience.
To begin this duck egg delight, cook 400g of spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a bowl, whisk together 4 duck egg yolks with 100g of finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper.
In a large pan, cook 150g of diced pancetta or guanciale until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining.
Add the hot pasta to the pan with the crispy pancetta and toss to combine. Remove the pan from the heat and quickly stir in the duck egg and cheese mixture, tossing vigorously to coat the pasta. The residual heat will gently cook the eggs, creating a silky smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
The duck eggs lend an unparalleled creaminess to the carbonara, their rich yolks creating a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to each strand of pasta. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, with a depth of flavour that surpasses traditional carbonara.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Pecorino Romano and a final crack of black pepper. This duck egg carbonara pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of dry white wine for a complete meal.
Remember, the key to a perfect duck egg carbonara is to work quickly when combining the hot pasta with the egg mixture to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs. With a little practice, you’ll master this duck egg recipe and have a show-stopping pasta dish in your culinary repertoire.
3. Duck Egg Custard Tart: A Rich and Creamy Dessert Perfect for Any Occasion
Indulge your sweet tooth with this luxurious duck egg custard tart, a dessert that showcases the richness and versatility of duck eggs. This classic British treat gets a gourmet upgrade with the use of duck eggs, resulting in a silky-smooth custard with an unparalleled depth of flavour.
To create this duck egg delight, start by preparing a sweet shortcrust pastry. Line a 23cm tart tin with the pastry and blind bake until golden. While the pastry cools, prepare the custard filling. In a saucepan, gently heat 500ml of double cream with a split vanilla pod until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it infuse for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together 4 duck egg yolks and 50g of caster sugar until pale and creamy. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine. Strain the custard through a fine sieve to ensure a smooth texture.
Pour the custard into the cooled pastry case and carefully transfer to a preheated oven. Bake at 160°C (140°C fan) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is just set with a slight wobble in the centre. The duck eggs contribute to a richer, more luxurious custard that sets beautifully while maintaining a delicate, trembling texture.
Once baked, allow the tart to cool completely before dusting with a light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg. The nutmeg complements the rich, creamy flavour of the duck egg custard, adding a subtle warmth to each bite.
This duck egg custard tart is best served at room temperature, allowing the full complexity of flavours to shine through. The result is a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated, with a silky-smooth custard encased in crisp, buttery pastry.
Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this duck egg custard tart is sure to impress. It’s a testament to the transformative power of duck eggs in baking, elevating a classic dessert to new heights of deliciousness.
4. Duck Egg Pancakes: Fluffy Pancakes with a Unique Twist
Start your morning off right with these delightfully fluffy duck egg pancakes. This duck egg recipe takes a breakfast staple and elevates it to new heights, resulting in pancakes that are richer, more flavourful, and incredibly satisfying.
To begin this duck egg delight, whisk together 200g of plain flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, beat 2 duck eggs until frothy, then whisk in 300ml of milk and 25g of melted butter. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, whisking until you have a smooth batter. Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow the flour to fully hydrate.
Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour about 60ml of batter into the pan for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute on the other side until golden brown.
The duck eggs in this recipe contribute to a richer flavour and a fluffier texture compared to traditional pancakes. Their larger yolks add extra richness and help create a more tender crumb, while their whites provide additional structure, resulting in pancakes that are both light and substantial.
Serve your duck egg pancakes warm, topped with your favourite accompaniments. Classic options include maple syrup and butter, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a dollop of lemon curd can complement the rich flavour of the duck egg pancakes beautifully.
For a savoury twist, try serving these pancakes with smoked salmon and a dollop of crème fraîche, or with crispy bacon and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce. The versatility of these duck egg pancakes makes them suitable for both sweet and savoury applications.
Whether you’re preparing a special breakfast for loved ones or treating yourself to a luxurious brunch, these duck egg pancakes are sure to impress. They’re a perfect example of how duck eggs can transform everyday recipes into something truly special.
5. Duck Egg Fried Rice: A Quick and Satisfying Meal
Transform your leftover rice into a delicious and satisfying meal with this duck egg fried rice recipe. This duck egg delight is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavour, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a comforting weekend lunch.
To start, heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the pan. Crack 2 duck eggs into the pan and quickly scramble them, breaking them into small pieces as they cook. The duck eggs will add a rich, creamy texture to the dish that sets it apart from traditional fried rice.
Once the eggs are just set, push them to one side of the pan and add diced onions, minced garlic, and any other vegetables you like. Popular choices include peas, carrots, and bell peppers. Stir-fry the vegetables until they’re tender-crisp.
Next, add 3 cups of cold, cooked rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir-fry for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy. The key to great fried rice is using day-old rice, as freshly cooked rice can become mushy.
Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and any additional seasonings you prefer, such as oyster sauce or chilli oil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Finally, fold in some chopped spring onions for freshness and crunch. The result is a flavourful, satisfying dish where the duck eggs add a luxurious richness that elevates this humble meal to new heights.
Serve your duck egg fried rice hot, garnished with additional spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. This versatile dish can be enjoyed on its own or as a side to other Asian-inspired dishes.
The beauty of this duck egg recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to add protein like diced chicken, prawns, or tofu, or experiment with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own signature duck egg fried rice.
6. Duck Egg Mayonnaise: Homemade Mayo with a Richer Flavour
Elevate your sandwiches, salads, and sauces with this luxurious duck egg mayonnaise. This duck egg delight takes the classic condiment to new heights, resulting in a richer, creamier mayo that will transform your culinary creations.
To begin, separate 2 duck egg yolks from the whites and place them in a mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.
Now comes the crucial part: slowly drizzle in 250ml of neutral-flavoured oil (such as sunflower or light olive oil) while whisking constantly. Start with just a few drops at a time, whisking vigorously to emulsify the mixture. As the mayonnaise begins to thicken, you can add the oil in a thin, steady stream, continuing to whisk until all the oil is incorporated and you have a thick, creamy mayonnaise.
The duck eggs in this recipe contribute to a richer, more luxurious mayonnaise compared to one made with chicken eggs. The larger yolks of duck eggs contain more fat, resulting in a creamier texture and a more robust flavour.
Once your duck egg mayonnaise is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, or some finely minced garlic for an aioli-style variation. For a herb-infused mayo, try adding finely chopped fresh herbs like dill, basil, or tarragon.
This homemade duck egg mayonnaise is perfect for elevating your sandwiches and burgers, or as a dipping sauce for chips or crudités. It also makes an excellent base for other sauces and dressings. Try mixing it with ketchup and finely chopped pickles for a quick tartar sauce, or blend it with roasted garlic for a delicious aioli.
Store your duck egg mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week. Remember, because this recipe uses raw egg yolks, it’s important to use the freshest duck eggs possible and consume the mayonnaise within the recommended time frame.
With this duck egg recipe in your culinary arsenal, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought mayonnaise again. The rich, creamy texture and depth of flavour make it a true duck egg delight.
7. Duck Egg Quiche: A Savoury Pie That’s Perfect for Brunch
Impress your guests with this delectable duck egg quiche, a savoury pie that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. This duck egg delight showcases the rich flavour and creamy texture of duck eggs in a classic French-inspired dish.
Begin by preparing a shortcrust pastry and blind baking it in a 23cm quiche dish until golden. While the crust cools, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together 4 duck eggs and 200ml of double cream. The duck eggs will provide a richer, more luxurious custard base compared to chicken eggs.
Add 100g of grated Gruyère cheese, 100g of diced cooked ham or bacon, and a handful of chopped fresh herbs such as chives or parsley. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend of flavours that complement the richness of the duck eggs.
Pour the mixture into the cooled pastry case and carefully transfer to a preheated oven. Bake at 180°C (160°C fan) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set but still has a slight wobble in the centre. The duck eggs contribute to a silky-smooth texture that sets beautifully while maintaining a delicate, trembling consistency.
Allow the quiche to cool for a few minutes before slicing. The result is a golden, puffed quiche with a creamy interior studded with savoury ham and melted cheese. The duck eggs lend a richness and depth of flavour that elevates this quiche above its chicken egg counterparts.
Serve your duck egg quiche warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine. It’s equally delicious hot from the oven or cold the next day, making it perfect for picnics or packed lunches.
This versatile duck egg recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Try swapping the ham for smoked salmon and dill, or use roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. The possibilities are endless, but the rich, creamy duck egg base will always be the star of the show.
8. Duck Egg Sponge Cake (continued)
The duck egg whites will give the cake its characteristic lightness and airy texture. Duck egg whites are known for their superior whipping properties, resulting in a more stable foam that helps create an exceptionally fluffy sponge.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins and smooth the tops. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the tins for a few minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, sandwich the cakes together with your favourite filling. A classic combination is freshly whipped cream and strawberry jam, but feel free to get creative. Lemon curd, chocolate ganache, or even a rich buttercream would all complement the delicate flavour of the duck egg sponge beautifully.
The result is a cake that’s incredibly light and airy, yet rich in flavour. The duck eggs contribute to a more tender crumb and a slightly denser texture compared to a traditional Victoria sponge, making each bite a true delight.
This duck egg sponge cake is perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or simply as a weekend treat. Its unique texture and flavour make it a standout among duck egg recipes, showcasing the versatility of this ingredient in baking.
9. Duck Egg Crème Brûlée: A Luxurious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent duck egg crème brûlée. This duck egg delight takes a beloved French classic and transforms it into something truly special, thanks to the rich, creamy texture of duck eggs.
To begin, preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan). In a saucepan, gently heat 500ml of double cream with a split vanilla pod until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it infuse for 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, whisk together 5 duck egg yolks and 50g of caster sugar until pale and creamy. The larger yolks of duck eggs will contribute to an exceptionally rich and silky custard.
Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to combine. Strain the custard through a fine sieve to ensure a smooth texture.
Divide the mixture between 6 ramekins and place them in a deep roasting tin. Fill the tin with hot water until it comes halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still have a slight wobble in the centre.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, sprinkle each custard with a thin layer of caster sugar and caramelise with a kitchen blowtorch or under a hot grill.
The result is a dessert that’s both elegant and indulgent. The duck eggs create a custard that’s richer and creamier than traditional crème brûlée, with a luxurious mouthfeel that’s truly unforgettable.
This duck egg crème brûlée is perfect for impressing dinner guests or as a special treat for yourself. It’s a testament to the transformative power of duck eggs in desserts, elevating a classic recipe to new heights of deliciousness.
10. Duck Egg Shakshuka: A Middle Eastern-Inspired Breakfast Dish
Start your day with a flavourful bang with this duck egg shakshuka. This duck egg delight takes inspiration from Middle Eastern cuisine, combining aromatic spices with the rich, creamy texture of duck eggs.
To begin, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Stir in minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper, cooking until fragrant.
Add a can of chopped tomatoes and simmer until the sauce has thickened slightly. Make 4 wells in the sauce and carefully crack a duck egg into each. The larger size of duck eggs means you’ll need fewer eggs to feed the same number of people, making this a more luxurious version of the classic shakshuka.
Cover the skillet and cook until the egg whites are set but the yolks are still runny. The duck eggs will cook to a beautiful golden colour, their rich yolks creating pockets of creamy deliciousness in the spicy tomato sauce.
Garnish with fresh coriander and crumbled feta cheese. Serve directly from the skillet with warm pita bread or crusty sourdough for dipping.
This duck egg shakshuka is a perfect weekend brunch dish, combining the comfort of eggs with the excitement of Middle Eastern flavours. The duck eggs add an extra layer of richness that elevates this dish from delicious to truly memorable.
11. Duck Egg Lemon Curd: A Tangy and Creamy Spread
Brighten up your breakfast or afternoon tea with this zesty duck egg lemon curd. This duck egg delight takes advantage of the rich, creamy yolks of duck eggs to create a spread that’s both luxuriously smooth and refreshingly tangy.
To make this curd, whisk together 4 duck egg yolks, 200g of caster sugar, the zest and juice of 4 lemons, and a pinch of salt in a heatproof bowl. Place the bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the bottom doesn’t touch the water.
Whisk constantly as you add 100g of unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Remove from heat and strain through a fine sieve to ensure a smooth texture. The duck eggs contribute to a curd that’s richer and more velvety than one made with chicken eggs, with a beautiful golden colour.
Pour the curd into sterilised jars and seal. Once cooled, store in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to two weeks.
This duck egg lemon curd is delicious spread on toast or scones, swirled into yoghurt, or used as a filling for tarts and cakes. Its bright flavour and luxurious texture make it a standout among duck egg recipes.
12. Duck Egg Meringue: Light as Air with a Unique Flavour
Finish our list of duck egg delights with these ethereal duck egg meringues. Duck egg whites are known for their superior whipping properties, making them ideal for creating meringues that are both light as air and satisfyingly crisp.
To begin, preheat your oven to 100°C (80°C fan). In a clean, grease-free bowl, whisk 4 duck egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add 200g of caster sugar, a spoonful at a time, whisking continuously until the mixture is glossy and forms stiff peaks.
Pipe or spoon the meringue mixture onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. You can make large pavlova-style bases or smaller individual meringues.
Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringues are crisp and easily lift off the paper. Turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside to cool completely.
The result is meringues that are crisp on the outside and slightly chewy in the centre, with a subtle richness that sets them apart from traditional meringues. Serve them with whipped cream and fresh berries for a classic dessert, or crush them up to use in an Eton mess.
These duck egg meringues are a perfect way to use up leftover egg whites from other duck egg recipes, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Table: Nutritional Comparison of Duck Eggs vs Chicken Eggs (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Duck Eggs | Chicken Eggs |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 185 | 143 |
| Protein | 12.8g | 12.6g |
| Fat | 13.8g | 9.5g |
| Vitamin B12 | 5.4µg | 1.1µg |
| Selenium | 36.4µg | 30.7µg |
| Choline | 263.9mg | 293.8mg |
FAQ: Duck Egg Delights
- Are duck eggs safe to eat?
Yes, duck eggs are safe to eat when properly handled and cooked. Like chicken eggs, they should be fully cooked to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. - How do duck eggs compare to chicken eggs in baking?
Duck eggs have larger yolks and more fat, which can result in richer, moister baked goods. They’re excellent for cakes, custards, and other recipes where richness is desired. - Can I substitute duck eggs for chicken eggs in recipes?
Generally, yes. However, due to their larger size, you might need to adjust the number of eggs used. A good rule of thumb is to use 3 duck eggs for every 4 chicken eggs called for in a recipe. - Where can I buy duck eggs?
Duck eggs can often be found at farmers’ markets, speciality food stores, and some larger supermarkets. You can also check with local duck farms or online suppliers. - How long do duck eggs last?
Fresh duck eggs can last up to 6 weeks in the refrigerator. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use.
These duck egg delights showcase the versatility and unique properties of duck eggs in cooking and baking. From rich custards to fluffy cakes, tangy curds to crisp meringues, duck eggs can elevate a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, these recipes offer plenty of opportunities to explore the wonderful world of duck eggs. So why not pick up a dozen and start experimenting with these duck egg recipes today?
