Feathered Feast: Pit Barrel Cooker Duck Recipe Magic

Pit Barrel Cooker Duck is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of sauces and sides. The unique design of the Pit Barrel Cooker allows you to smoke and grill your duck at the same time, resulting in a juicy duck with crispy skin. Additionally, the Pit Barrel Cooker infuses the duck with a delicious smoky flavor.

In this article, we will discuss the benefits of a smoked whole duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker, as well as how to choose and prep your duck for smoking. We will also provide tips for getting the most out of your Pit Barrel Cooker and ensuring that your smoked duck recipe is cooked to perfection.

Benefits of Smoking Duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker

There are many benefits to smoking duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Even cooking: The Pit Barrel Cooker's unique design ensures that your duck will be cooked evenly on all sides, resulting in a tender and juicy duck.
  • Flavor: Smoking duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker adds a delicious smoke flavor to the meat and skin of the duck. The Pit Barrel Cooker can be used with a variety of wood chips, so you can experiment with different flavors to find the one you like best.
  • Convenience: The Pit Barrel Cooker is very easy to use. Once you have preheated the PBC, simply hang the duck on the hanger rod and let it cook. The PBC will do the rest!

How to Choose and Prep Your Duck for Smoking

When choosing a duck for smoking, look for a duck that is fresh and plump. The ideal duck for smoking will weigh between 4 and 5 pounds.

Once you have chosen your duck, it is important to prep it properly before smoking. To start, much like how you would prepare a turkey, remove the giblets from the duck cavity. Then, rinse the duck inside and out with cold water. Pat the duck dry with paper towels.

Next, you need to season the duck. A simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder will work well. You can also add other herbs and spices to your liking.

If you want to add a richer flavor to your duck, you can brine it before smoking. To brine the duck, simply combine 1 cup of salt, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1 gallon of water in a large pot. Bring the brine to a boil, then remove it from the heat and let it cool completely. Once the brine is cool, place the duck in the brine and refrigerate it for 12-24 hours.

Tips for Prepping Your Duck for Smoking

  • For a crispier skin, score or prick the duck skin before smoking.
  • If you are using a brine, be sure to rinse the duck thoroughly with cold water before smoking.
  • If you are using a rub, be sure to apply it evenly to all sides of the duck.

Once your duck is prepped, you are ready to start smoking!

How to Smoke a Pit Barrel Cooker Duck: A Step-by-Step Guide

Smoking a duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker is a great way to cook this delicious and versatile meat. The PBC's unique design allows you to smoke your duck to perfection resulting in a juicy, tender, and flavorful dish.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to smoke Pit Barrel Cooker duck:

Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker

Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

Add wood chips to the charcoal basket

Add wood chips to the charcoal basket.

Hang the bird

Hang the bird on the PBC hanging rod using a hook.

Smoke the duck for 3 hours

Smoke the duck for 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Increase the temp

Increase the temp of your PBC to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Grill the duck for 5-10 minutes per side

Grill the duck for 5-10 minutes per side, or until the skin is crisp.

Let It Rest

Remove the duck from the PBC and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.

Troubleshooting Tips for Smoking Pit Barrel Cooker duck

  • If the duck is not cooking evenly, rotate it on the grate every hour.
  • If the duck is cooking too quickly, reduce the temperature of the PBC.
  • If the duck is not cooking quickly enough, increase the temperature of the PBC.
  • If the duck is dry, it may have been overcooked. Try reducing the cooking time or using a brine before smoking.
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Pit Barrel Cooker Duck 7

Tea-Smoked Pit Barrel Cooker Duck Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Way to Smoke Duck on a PBC

This Tea-smoked duck recipe is a popular dish in China and other Asian countries. It is made by smoking duck over a mixture of tea leaves, wood chips, and other spices. The tea leaves give the duck a unique smoky flavor and aroma.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole duck (4-5 pounds)
  • 1/2 cup of tea leaves (use your favorite type of tea)
  • 1/4 cup of brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup of water

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Combine the tea leaves, brown sugar, and water in a bowl.
  3. Place the tea mixture in a foil pouch.
  4. Place the tea pouch in the charcoal basket of your PBC.
  5. Hang the duck on the PBC grate using a poultry hook.
  6. Smoke the duck for approximately 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Increase the temperature of your PBC to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  8. Grill the duck for 5-10 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy.
  9. Remove the duck from the PBC and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

Tips for Making Tea-Smoked Pit Barrel Cooker Duck

  • Use a variety of tea leaves to create a unique flavor profile. Some popular choices include black tea, green tea, and oolong tea.
  • Add other spices such as five-spice powder to the tea mixture, or star anise, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
  • If you don't have a foil pouch, you can simply place the tea mixture on the bottom of the charcoal basket.
  • Be sure to check the duck frequently to make sure that it does not overcook.
  • Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy dish.

Serving Suggestions

Tea-smoked duck can be served in a variety of ways. It is delicious on its own, but it can also be used in sandwiches, salads, and other dishes.

Here are a few serving suggestions:

  • Serve tea-smoked duck with sliced cucumber, scallions, and hoisin sauce.
  • Make a tea-smoked duck sandwich with your favorite bread, mayonnaise, and lettuce.
  • Add tea-smoked duck to a salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and avocado.
  • Use tea-smoked duck to make a delicious soup or stew.
Pit Barrel Cooker Duck

Tips for Smoking Pit Barrel Cooker Duck

Here are some additional tips for smoking Pit Barrel Cooker duck:

  • Use a brine to prep your duck before smoking. This will help to keep the duck moist and tender. A simple brine can be made by dissolving 1 cup of salt in 1 gallon of water. Brine the duck for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the duck is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh to check the doneness.
  • Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy duck.

Additional Tips

  • For a crispier skin, score the duck skin before smoking. You can use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in the skin in a crosshatch pattern.
  • If you are using a wood chip blend, be sure to choose a blend that is specifically designed for smoking poultry. Popular wood chip blends for smoking duck include cherry, apple, and maple.
  • To add a smoky flavor to the duck without overpowering the meat, try using a smoke tube. Smoke tubes are filled with wood chips and smolder for several hours. Simply place the smoke tube in the charcoal basket of your PBC and let it do its work.
  • If you are smoking duck on a windy day, be sure to shield your PBC from the wind. This will help to maintain a consistent temperature in the PBC.
Pit Barrel Cooker Duck 3

How to Serve and Store Your Pit Barrel Cooker Duck

Smoked Pit Barrel Cooker duck is a delicious and versatile meat that can be served in a variety of ways. It is delicious on its own, but it can also be used in sandwiches, salads, and other dishes.

Here are a few serving ideas for smoked Pit Barrel Cooker duck:

How to Store Smoked Pit Barrel Cooker Duck

To store smoked duck, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze smoked duck for up to 2 months.

When reheating smoked Pit Barrel Cooker duck, be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked smoked duck will be dry and tough. To reheat smoked duck, simply slice it and warm it up in a skillet or oven over low heat.

Here are a few additional tips for serving and storing smoked Pit Barrel Cooker Duck:

  • If you are serving smoked duck as a main course, be sure to pair it with sides that complement the rich flavor of the duck. Good side dishes for smoked duck include roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, and rice.
  • If you are using smoked duck in a sandwich or salad, be sure to thinly slice it. This will make it easier to eat and will help to distribute the flavor more evenly.
  • If you are freezing smoked duck, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and label it with the date. This will help to prevent freezer burn.
Pit Barrel Cooker Duck 2

Additional Tips for Smoking Duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker

In addition to the tips provided in the previous sections, here are a few additional tips for smoking duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker:

  • Use a poultry hook to hang the duck in the PBC. This will help to ensure that the duck cooks evenly on all sides.
  • Score the duck skin before smoking. This will help to render the fat and create a crispier skin.
  • Baste the duck with a mixture of oil and vinegar during the last hour of smoking. This will help to prevent the duck from drying out and will also add a nice glaze to the skin.

Here are a few additional tips for enhancing the flavor of your smoked Pit Barrel Cooker Duck:

  • Use a variety of wood chips to create a unique flavor profile. Popular wood chips for smoking duck include cherry, apple, and maple.
  • Add spices to the wood chips, such as juniper berries, cloves, or star anise.
  • Place a foil pouch of herbs and spices in the charcoal basket. This will add a subtle flavor to the duck.
  • Baste the duck with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar during the last hour of smoking. This will add a sweet and savory glaze to the duck.

With these tips, you can smoke a delicious and juicy duck on your Pit Barrel Cooker every time!

Pit Barrel Cooker Duck 5

Enhance Your Smoked Duck with Delicious Sauces and Sides

Smoked duck is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of sauces and sides. Here are a few ideas for how to enhance your smoked duck:

Sauces:

  • Hoisin sauce: This thick, sweet, and savory sauce is a classic pairing for smoked duck. Simply brush the hoisin sauce on the duck before or after smoking to add a delicious flavor and glaze.
  • Plum sauce: This sweet and tangy sauce is another great option for smoked duck. It pairs well with the smoky flavor of the duck and adds a bit of sweetness.
  • Orange sauce: This bright and citrusy sauce is a refreshing accompaniment to smoked duck. It helps to cut through the richness of the duck and adds a bit of acidity.
  • Teriyaki sauce: This sweet and salty sauce is a popular choice for smoked duck. It adds a delicious flavor and glaze to the duck.

Sides:

  • Roasted potatoes: Roasted potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with smoked duck. Simply toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them in the oven until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are another delicious and comforting side dish that pairs well with smoked duck. Simply mash the potatoes with butter, milk, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Rice pilaf: Rice pilaf is a flavorful and elegant side dish that pairs well with smoked duck. Simply cook the rice according to package directions and then add in some chopped onion, garlic, and herbs.
  • Green beans: Green beans are a healthy and refreshing side dish that pairs well with smoked duck. Simply steam or roast the green beans until they are tender.
  • Asparagus: Asparagus is another healthy and delicious side dish that pairs well with smoked duck. Simply steam or roast the asparagus until it is tender.
Bourbon and brandy are excellent accompaniments to Pit Barrel Cooker duck for several reasons.
  • First, the smoky flavor of the duck pairs well with the rich, nutty flavors of bourbon and brandy. These spirits also help to cut through the fat of the duck, resulting in a more balanced and enjoyable dining experience.
  • Second, the sweetness of bourbon and brandy complements the savory flavor of the duck. The sweetness of these spirits also helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the duck's meat.
  • Third, bourbon and brandy are both complex spirits with a variety of flavor notes. This makes them ideal for pairing with a dish like duck, which also has a complex flavor profile.

Here are a few specific pairings to consider:

  • Bourbon: A smoky bourbon, such as Blanton's or Baker's, would be a great pairing with Pit Barrel Cooker duck. The smoke from the bourbon would complement the smoke from the duck, while the sweetness of the bourbon would complement the savory flavor of the duck.
  • Brandy: A cognac or Armagnac would be a great pairing with Pit Barrel Cooker duck. The cognac or armagnac would add a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish, while also helping to cut through the fat of the duck.

No matter what bourbon or brandy you choose, be sure to serve it at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop. You can also enjoy a neat pour, or you can add a splash of water or club soda to open up the flavors even more.

With these ideas, you can create a delicious and memorable meal with your smoked duck. Enjoy!

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Conclusion: Why Smoking Pit Barrel Cooker Duck is the Best Way to Cook This Delicious Meat

Smoking duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker is the best way to cook this delicious meat for several reasons.

  • First, the PBC's unique design allows you to smoke and grill your duck at the same time. This results in a juicy duck with crispy skin.
  • Second, the PBC gives the duck a delicious smoky flavor. You can experiment with different wood chips to create a unique flavor profile for your duck.
  • Third, the PBC is very easy to use. Once you have preheated the PBC, simply hang the duck on the grate and let it cook. The PBC will do the rest!

Here are a few additional benefits of smoking Pit Barrel Cooker Duck:

  • The PBC is a very efficient smoker. It uses less charcoal than other types of smokers, and it produces a much cleaner smoke.
  • The PBC is also very versatile. It can be used to smoke a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef.
  • The PBC is relatively affordable. It is a great investment for anyone who loves to smoke meat.

If you are looking for a delicious and easy way to cook duck, I highly recommend using a Pit Barrel Cooker. You will not be disappointed!

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your Pit Barrel Cooker:

  • Use good quality charcoal. This will help to ensure a clean smoke and a consistent temperature.
  • Preheat your PBC for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help to ensure that the duck cooks evenly.
  • Monitor the temperature of the PBC closely. The ideal temperature for smoking duck is 250-275 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Don't overcrowd the PBC grate. This will prevent the duck from cooking evenly.
  • Let the duck rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy dish.

With these tips, you can smoke a delicious and juicy duck on your Pit Barrel Cooker every time!

Pit Barrel Cooker Duck 4

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Smoked Duck!

Smoking duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker is a great way to cook this delicious and versatile meat. The PBC's unique design allows you to smoke and grill your duck at the same time, resulting in a juicy duck with crispy skin. The PBC also gives the duck a delicious smoky flavor.

Once you have smoked your duck, there are many ways to enjoy it. You can serve it on its own, or you can pair it with a variety of sauces and sides. Some popular options include hoisin sauce, plum sauce, orange sauce, teriyaki sauce, roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, green beans, and asparagus.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, smoked duck is a delicious and satisfying meal.

So fire up your Pit Barrel Cooker and get smoking!

Here are a few additional tips for enjoying your smoked duck:

  • Slice the duck thinly before serving. This will make it easier to eat and will help to distribute the flavor more evenly.
  • Serve the duck with a variety of dipping sauces. This will allow your guests to customize their meal to their liking.
  • Pair the duck with a side dish that complements the smoky flavor. Roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, and rice pilaf are all good options.
  • Enjoy the duck with a glass of red wine or beer. The rich flavor of the duck pairs well with a variety of beverages.

I hope you have enjoyed this article on smoking duck on a Pit Barrel Cooker. With these tips, you can smoke a delicious and juicy duck every time!

Make sure to comeback to SmokyBeginnings.com as we are continuously adding new recipes and tips to the site.



Pit Barrel Cooker Duck FAQ

Q: How long does it take to smoke a 6lb duck?

A: It will take about 3-4 hours to smoke a 6lb duck at 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Why pour boiling water over duck?

A: Pouring boiling water over the duck before smoking helps to tighten the skin and render some of the fat, resulting in a crispier skin.

Q: How many people will a 6 pound duck serve?

A: A 6 pound duck will serve 4-6 people.

Q: How long does it take to smoke a whole duck at 225?

A: It will take about 3-4 hours to smoke a whole duck at 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: What is the best temperature to smoke a duck?

A: The best temperature to smoke a duck is 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will ensure that the duck cooks evenly and has a crispy skin.

Q: Do you have to brine a duck to smoke it?

A: It is not necessary to brine a duck before smoking it, but brining will add moisture and flavor to the duck.

Q: Should I brine my duck before smoking?

A: Whether or not you brine your duck before smoking is a personal preference. If you choose to brine your duck, brine it for 12-24 hours in a salt and sugar solution.



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Pit Barrel Cooker Duck 6

Pit Barrel Cooker Smoked Duck with a Crispy Skin

Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this mouthwatering Pit Barrel Cooker duck recipe. The Pit Barrel Cooker's unique design and charcoal-fueled heat give the duck a smoky flavor and crispy skin that will impress your guests. This recipe combines the rich, tender meat of duck with a savory and slightly sweet rub, resulting in a delightful dining experience. Whether you're an experienced pitmaster or a novice, you'll love the results of this easy-to-follow recipe.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Whole duck (4-5 pounds)
  • ½ cup Tea leaves (use your favorite type of tea)
  • ¼ cup Brown sugar
  • ¼ cup Water

Instructions
 

Tea Instructions

  • Combine the tea leaves, brown sugar, and water in a bowl.
  • Place the tea mixture in a foil pouch.
  • Place the tea pouch in the charcoal basket of your PBC.

Smoking Instructions

  • Preheat your Pit Barrel Cooker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Add wood chips to the charcoal basket.
  • Hang the bird on the PBC grate using a poultry hook.
  • Smoke the duck for 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Increase the temp of your PBC to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Grill the duck for 5-10 minutes per side, or until the skin is crisp.
  • Remove the duck from the PBC and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Keyword Pit Barrel Cooker duck, Pit Barrel Cooker duck recipe

About the author 

CJ Ferrara

CJ Ferrara is a BBQ enthusiast, who shares his passion for grilling and smoking meats with the readers of Smoky Beginnings. When he isn't grilling, smoking meat, or writing BBQ-focused articles you can catch him spending time with his family and enjoying a sporting event.


Find out more about CJ on our About Us page


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