Soulful Duck Gumbo

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Vietnamese Chao vit is transformed into a soulful gumbo by incorporating Southern flavors and cooking techniques. The original dish is typically a rice porridge with duck, while the adapted version features a thick gumbo base with a roux and a variety of vegetables. The spices used in the gumbo are influenced by Southern cuisine, adding a unique twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Chao vit, so you can check it out.

• 2 duck legs, skin-on (450g / 1 lb) 2 duck legs, skin-on (450g / 1 lb)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked rice, for serving Cooked rice, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the duck legs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the duck legs from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the flour and stir continuously to make a roux. Cook the roux until it turns a dark brown color, being careful not to burn it.
3. 3.
   Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. 4.
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Return the duck legs to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 1 hour, or until the duck is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Remove the duck legs from the pot and shred the meat. Discard the bones and return the shredded meat to the pot.
7. 7.
   Simmer the gumbo for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to further develop. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. 8.
   Serve the Soulful Duck Gumbo over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Duck legs — Make sure to brown the duck legs well before adding them to the gumbo. This will enhance the flavor of the dish.
• Roux — Take care not to burn the roux while cooking it. Stir continuously and adjust the heat if necessary to prevent it from scorching.
• Cayenne pepper — Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Add more for a spicier gumbo or reduce it for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can use duck fat instead of vegetable oil to brown the duck legs.
• If you prefer a thicker gumbo, you can add a tablespoon of file powder or okra to the pot while simmering.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as okra or corn to the gumbo for additional texture and flavor.
• Serve the gumbo with a side of cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Leftover gumbo tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Duck Gumbo hot over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Accompany the dish with a side of cornbread or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Soulful Duck Gumbo in a deep bowl, allowing the rich broth and tender duck meat to take center stage. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for an appealing touch of green. Serve with a side of steamed rice and a slice of cornbread for a visually pleasing and satisfying presentation.