
Slow-braised duck legs are a rich, savory dish where duck legs are gently cooked for hours in a flavorful liquid, often with aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs. This classic French technique, known as 'confit' or braising, results in incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. It's a staple in rustic European cuisine, particularly in regions like Gascony in France.
This dish is high in protein and fat, with virtually no carbohydrates. It's an excellent source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12. A typical serving of two braised duck legs with some sauce contains approximately 500-600 calories.
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 40 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Zinc | 6.2 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.8 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 12 mg |
| Phosphorus | 320 mg |
| Selenium | 38 mcg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.8 mg |
Per 2 duck legs (approximately 300 g) with braising liquid · estimated, varies by recipe
The slow-cooking method in its own fat (or a braising liquid) is a historic preservation technique. Nutritionally, while high in fat, duck fat is rich in monounsaturated fats, similar to olive oil, and contains antioxidants.