Dinner · Noodle · Poultry · Thai

Aromatic Tamarind Duck and Lychee Rice Noodles

Experience a vibrant balance of flavors with pan-seared duck breast, sweet tropical lychees, and silky rice noodles tossed in a tangy tamarind-chili reduction.

4.8(0 reviews)
·By Ethan Brooks·
Aromatic Tamarind Duck and Lychee Rice Noodles — Thai Dinner served and photographed from above
Prep
25 min
Cook
20 min
Difficulty
Medium
Serves
2

Preparation

Get these tasks done before you start cooking.

Before you start

    How to Make Aromatic Tamarind Duck and Lychee Rice Noodles

    Total time: 45 min · Yields 2 servings

    1. 1

      Render the Duck

      Place duck breasts skin-side down in a cold skillet. Turn heat to medium-low. Cook for 8-10 minutes without moving them to render out the fat and achieve a golden, crispy skin. Turn over and cook for 2-3 minutes for medium-rare. Remove from pan and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing into thin medallions.

    2. 2

      Prepare the Tamarind Base

      In a small bowl, whisk together the tamarind concentrate, palm sugar, fish sauce, and chili flakes until the sugar is dissolved.

    3. 3

      Stir-Fry Aromatics

      Drain all but 1 tablespoon of duck fat from the skillet. Over medium-high heat, sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the cherry tomatoes and pineapple, tossing for 1 minute until the tomatoes just begin to soften.

    4. 4

      Toss the Noodles

      Add the rice noodles to the pan followed by the tamarind sauce mixture. Toss vigorously using tongs for 2 minutes. If the noodles seem too dry, add a splash of water or chicken stock to help them soften and coat evenly.

    5. 5

      Incorporate Fruit and Herbs

      Gently fold in the lychees and sliced duck medallions. Toss just until heated through (about 30 seconds). Turn off the heat and stir in the Thai basil and sawtooth coriander so they wilt slightly from the residual heat.

    6. 6

      Garnish and Serve

      Plate the noodles immediately. Top with the sliced red spur chili and extra fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.

    Chef's Tips

    • Always start duck in a cold pan; this ensures the fat renders out properly before the skin burns.
    • If using dried noodles, soak them in lukewarm water for 30 minutes until flexible but still firm before stir-frying.
    • For an extra layer of flavor, add a tablespoon of the rendered duck fat back into the sauce at the very end.

    What to Serve with Aromatic Tamarind Duck and Lychee Rice Noodles

    The garlic butter sauce is the star — pick sides that soak it up or balance the richness.

    • A side of crispy fried shallots for added texture.
    • A chilled glass of Off-dry Riesling to complement the fruit and spice.
    • Fresh cucumber slices on the side to refresh the palate.

    Frequently asked questions

    Can I use canned lychees?

    Yes, but ensure they are well-drained and rinsed. Fresh lychees are preferred for their firm texture and floral aroma.

    How spicy is this dish?

    It is moderately spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing the amount of roasted chili flakes (prik bon).

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