By Scott Leysath
Photography by John Hoffman

Preparing the "ultimate" duck dinner can be a daunting task unless the menu is both user-friendly and delicious. My fantasy meal is not complicated and does not require any special equipment or obscure ingredients. Much of the work can be done well in advance, leaving a few finishing touches for the time when guests arrive. It pains me to see home chefs running around making a mess of the kitchen when they should be enjoying the evening with their friends.

At first glance, this five-course feast looks like you will have to set the alarm clock early, as you would for a duck hunt. But rest assured, if you plan ahead you can sleep in. The smoked duck, jalapeño cream cheese, marinated shredded duck, soup, sauces, and dressing can all be prepared a day or two ahead. Come dinner time, the majority of the pots and pans will have already been cleaned and put away. Your guests will marvel at how easy you made it look.


{ All recipes serve 6 }