When it comes to the versatility of duck, it doesn’t just include the ways it can be added to other dishes or made into a completely new one, but it goes perfectly with a certain favorite adult beverage. For those who find beer to have too much of a grainy flavor and wine to be more than expected, cider is a great alternative, and it pairs wonderfully with duck!
Cider comes from fermented apple juice which gives it a very sweet profile. Depending on the type you choose, some may have a more bitter taste to them, but overall, the light flavor is complimented by the savory duck dishes featured today. Peak cider season takes place during the fall months as apple orchards are in full bloom. The scent of autumn that presents itself in each duck centered recipe is enriched by the sweet and slightly tart flavor of your choice cider! Grab your favorite sweater and get cozy to enjoy these fall flavored dinner and drink pairings.
With a delicious brown sugar base, Duck Bacon BBQ’d Bean Casserole pairs wonderfully with a Traditional Cider. These region-specific ciders boast a delicious and equal flavor to this recipe. The cider's acidity enhances all the flavors of this dish while also allowing for a quick pallet cleanse when necessary.
The autumn season is home to many different ‘comfort food’ recipes. One of the most popular being soups. Simple to make, easy to reheat, and if frozen, can last for months! Not only is it a convenience in the kitchen but it also provides some of the most unassuming packed in flavor! This Wild Mushroom Duck Soup mixes an array of simple flavors together making the bright flavor of cider a perfect contrast to this dish. If you don’t have any red wine on hand or simply prefer the apple to grape taste profiles, use a semi-dry to dry, slightly sweet cider to make this dish!
One of the biggest food trends that has taken over houses everywhere in the U.S. has been wine & charcuterie nights. Placed on a wooden board, varying in size, is an array of delicious cheeses such as creamy Brie, sharp aged cheddar, rich and tangy Gorgonzola, goat cheese, sweet Gruyère, crumbly feta, and smooth Havarti. That is only the beginning of this tasting journey as you begin to add on cuts of perfectly prepared Duck Breast and crispy Duck Bacon along with carrots, celery and sauces to match. Once the Charcuterie Board is finished, the next step is finding the perfect drink to match. Although wine has taken front stage as the go to choice for most people, the sweet and tart notes of cider match exquisitely with all varieties of cheeses and are the perfect complement to duck meat! Choose from a variety of different ciders based on what tasting experience you think might be missing on the board you create!
Finding the perfect match for a drink that pairs well with duck can almost seem intimidating if you are new to the duck world. One of the many great things about duck meat is that it works well with almost any drink you can think of. Duck’s versatility goes beyond the dish and finds itself influencing all parts of the dining experience. Want to use fermented drinks in other dishes? Try Beer Can Duck on the grill! If ciders are not your style and wine is where it’s at for you, find delicious wine pairings below.
France Duck & Wine Pairing Guide 🟢
Italy Duck & Wine Pairing Guide 🟢
Africa Duck & Wine Pairing Guide 🟢
Australia Duck & Wine Pairing Guide 🟢
Spain Duck & Wine Pairing Guide 🟢
German Duck & Wine Pairing Guide 🟢