Duck on Weck

A gourmet twist on the classic Beef on Weck, this sandwich features succulent, slow-roasted duck piled onto a crusty kummelweck roll, topped with freshly grated horseradish for a bold and flavorful bite. Juicy, savory, and packed with rich umami flavors, this dish is perfect for sandwich lovers and food enthusiasts looking for something unique and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, Slow-Roasted Duck – Tender and flavorful with a crispy, golden-brown skin.
• Crispy Kummelweck Roll – Lightly toasted and topped with caraway seeds and salt for crunch.
• Bold Horseradish Kick – Freshly grated for a spicy, pungent bite that balances the richness of the duck.
• Dippable Duck Jus – Serve with warm duck jus or au jus for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Perfect for Foodies – A creative take on a Buffalo-style classic that impresses with every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Duck:

• Duck legs or duck breast (shredded)
• Salt & black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Fresh rosemary (chopped)
• Fennel seeds
• Olive oil

For the Kummelweck Rolls:

• Kaiser rolls
• Coarse salt
• Caraway seeds
• Egg white (beaten, for brushing)

For the Toppings:

• Prepared horseradish (freshly grated)
• Duck jus or au jus (for dipping, optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Duck:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Pat duck dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, and fennel seeds.

2. Roast the Duck:

3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the duck on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
5. Transfer to an oven-safe dish and roast for 1.5–2 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
6. Shred the duck meat and set aside.

3. Prepare the Rolls:

7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. Brush Kaiser rolls with beaten egg white.
9. Sprinkle with coarse salt and caraway seeds.
10. Toast in the oven for 5 minutes until lightly crisped.

4. Assemble the Sandwich:

11. Pile shredded duck onto the kummelweck roll.
12. Top with freshly grated horseradish.
13. Serve with warm duck jus on the side for dipping.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy Horseradish Mayo – Mix horseradish with mayonnaise and lemon juice for a creamy twist.
• Crispy Skin Addition – Dice and crisp up duck skin for an extra crunchy topping.
• Smoky Flavor – Add smoked paprika or roast duck over wood chips for depth.
• Cheesy Upgrade – Add a layer of melted provolone or Swiss cheese for extra richness.
• Sweet & Savory – Drizzle with a touch of honey or fig jam to contrast the salty flavors.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shredded duck in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze roasted duck in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm shredded duck in a pan over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs

What is a kummelweck roll?

A kummelweck roll is a Kaiser roll topped with coarse salt and caraway seeds, commonly used in Buffalo-style Beef on Weck sandwiches.

Can I use duck breast instead of duck legs?

Yes! Duck breast will cook faster and can be sliced instead of shredded.

How do I keep the duck juicy?

Roasting at low temperature and basting with duck fat or broth helps keep it tender and moist.

What can I use instead of Kaiser rolls?

Try ciabatta, brioche, or pretzel buns for a similar texture.

Can I make the duck ahead of time?

Yes! Cook and shred the duck in advance, then reheat before serving.

What’s the best way to serve this sandwich?

Pair with crispy fries, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a light salad.

Is this sandwich spicy?

The fresh horseradish adds heat, but you can adjust the amount to your liking.

What’s the best drink to pair with this?

Try with a bold red wine, dark beer, or bourbon-based cocktail.

Conclusion

Duck on Weck is a savory, indulgent sandwich that brings together tender, slow-roasted duck, crispy kummelweck rolls, and spicy horseradish for a truly unforgettable bite. Whether you’re a sandwich lover or an adventurous foodie, this elevated take on a Buffalo classic is a must-try. Serve with duck jus for dipping and enjoy every rich, flavorful bite!