Dish

Pečená kachna

Roast Duck

Pečená kachna is made by roasting a whole duck with red cabbage and apples. The duck is seasoned with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds, and then stuffed with red cabbage and apples. The dish is then roasted in the oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender. The red cabbage and apples add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish that complements the richness of the duck meat. Pečená kachna is typically served with bread dumplings and gravy.

European cuisine› Alpine cuisine› Czech cuisine

Meat Dish› Poultry Dish› Duck Dish

Origins and history

Pečená kachna has been a traditional Czech dish for centuries. It is often served during holidays and special occasions, such as Christmas and Easter. The dish is believed to have originated in the rural areas of Czech Republic, where ducks, red cabbage, and apples were readily available. Today, Pečená kachna is a popular dish in many Czech households and restaurants.

Dietary considerations

Gluten-free

Variations

There are many variations of Pečená kachna, some of which include adding prunes or raisins to the stuffing, or using different types of apples. Some recipes also call for marinating the duck in red wine before roasting it.

Presentation and garnishing

Pečená kachna is a beautiful dish that can be garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme. The roasted red cabbage and apples can also be used as a garnish. To present the dish, place the duck on a large platter and surround it with the roasted red cabbage and apples. Serve the bread dumplings and gravy on the side.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the duck is cooked evenly, prick the skin all over with a fork before roasting it. This will allow the fat to escape and the skin to become crispy. Also, be sure to baste the duck with its own juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

Side-dishes

Bread dumplings and gravy are the traditional side dishes served with Pečená kachna. Other side dishes that pair well with the dish include roasted root vegetables, such as carrots and parsnips, or a simple green salad.

Drink pairings

A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pairs well with Pečená kachna. For those who prefer white wine, a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio would also work well.