Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Le Papillon›Duck Rillettes Recipe

Duck Rillettes Recipe

Inspired by Le Papillon
Time3h
Serves8

Served with pickles and crusty bread.

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Ingredients

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Duck Rillettes

Serving Accompaniments

Method

Duck Rillettes Preparation

  1. 1

    Season the Duck

    In a large bowl, season the duck legs with salt, black peppercorns, and thyme. Add the crushed garlic cloves and toss to coat evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.

  2. 2

    Cook the Duck

    In a large, heavy pot, add the marinated duck legs along with any remaining seasoning from the bowl. Pour in the duck fat (or olive oil) and add the bay leaves. The fat should cover the duck legs completely. Heat over medium-low until the fat begins to melt.

  3. 3

    Simmer

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the duck is very tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

  4. 4

    Shred the Duck

    Once cooked, remove the duck legs from the pot and let them cool slightly. Shred the meat with two forks, discarding the skin and bones. Return the shredded meat to the pot with the fat and mix well.

  5. 5

    Cool and Store

    Transfer the duck rillettes to a serving dish or individual jars. Pour a thin layer of the melted fat over the top to seal. Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to develop flavors.

Serving

  1. 6

    Prepare Accompaniments

    Slice the crusty bread into thick slices. Arrange on a serving platter. Place a small bowl of pickles next to the bread.

  2. 7

    Serve the Rillettes

    Serve the duck rillettes chilled or at room temperature alongside the crusty bread and pickles. Guests can spread the rillettes on the bread and enjoy.

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