Handy Pantry Staple: Duck Confit in Cans

I know, I know. You're thinking: "Canned duck? Are you kidding me?" But trust me on this one, really. I love keeping a can of duck confit in my pantry, and unlike other foods in cans, it's actually really delicious!

If there's a night when I am really busy and want to eat something tasty, or I have a surprise dinner guest (gasp!) these cans of canard goodness are a lifesaver! Simply remove the duck from the can, reheat it on the stovetop in a heavy skillet, and serve with some frisée or some vegetable side dishes, and voilà! Instant gourmet! Or perhaps you're craving a cassoulet, but you don't want to take the time to make duck confit. Easy shortcut!

Also, save the duck fat that's left in the can; it's wonderful for frying potatoes and mushrooms in.

You can buy them at your local French or gourmet food store. If you don't know where to find them, buy them online at Touch of Europe for $24.50.

Comments (9)

In this economy?

posted by LongIslandFoodie on November 17th 2008 at 3:50pm
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It's right next to the can of shaved truffles and foie gras. Ask the people at the caviar desk, they'll know where it is.

posted by jumpyfroggy on November 17th 2008 at 3:57pm
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Nancy Silverton has a terrific book about what canned goods can be used to make fast means. Canned duck confit isn't one of them, but oh well.

But really, what's with the $25 can post?

posted by Palmetto on November 17th 2008 at 4:35pm
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I also had my doubts about canned duck, but then I got a can of cassoulet from a friend visiting from France and it was divine! Not something I'd splurge on myself, but certainly a delight to receive.

posted by Michelle of Montreal on November 17th 2008 at 4:37pm
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I take pride in serving 'gourmet' food on the cheap. $25 a can is ludicris! Unless that can feeds 6 people!

posted by revolution9 on November 17th 2008 at 4:50pm
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Thats $25 for a 3lb can. That works out to about $0.50 an oz, and think about how much you pay for canned chicken or tuna.

posted by roseslaw on November 17th 2008 at 5:43pm
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I don't think the can is 3 lbs. The label says 20 ounces, it's the total shipping weight that's 3 lbs.

posted by bubble on November 17th 2008 at 5:53pm
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Le Pigeon in Portland used to serve duck confit hash at breakfast- I wonder if you could use the canned stuff for it?

posted by IroquoisCasual on November 17th 2008 at 6:00pm
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Thank you for this post! I'm of the opinion that even in the worst of times we should all have a little indulgence here and there!

posted by AnneBird on November 18th 2008 at 11:04pm
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