Maple Duck Bites with Apple and Basil

Ingredients for the marinade

• 1 magret duck breast of 450 g
• 1/3 cup apple juice
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• The juice of 1/2 lime
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper from the mill

Ingredients for the rest

• 2 spartan apples, peeled and cut into large cubes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 20 small fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper from the mill

Preparation

1. Place the duck breasts on a work surface with the skin facing up. Make checkerboard incisions in the fat, every 2 cm. Do not cut the flesh. Place the duck in an airtight dish. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, add the ingredients for the marinade, season with salt and pepper generously and mix. Pour over the duck and close the dish. Shake well to coat the meat. Reserve in the fridge for 24 hours and shake occasionally.
3. 24 hours later, preheat oven to 375 F.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the apples. Mix to coat.
5. Add maple syrup, mix and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until apples are tender and syrup reduced. Season with salt and pepper. Drain and keep warm.
6. Remove the duck from the marinade and drain. In an oven-friendly non-stick skillet over low heat, place the duck skin down. Cook for about 15 minutes and remove the fat as you go. Flip the duck and continue cooking over medium heat for about 2 minutes.
7. Place in the oven and continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes or to an internal temperature of 135°F. Remove from the oven and place on a plate. Cover with foil and let stand for 5 minutes. Cut into thin slices.
8. Place a piece of apple on each slice of duck followed by a basil leaf. Coat the apple with the slice of duck and prick with a toothpick! Serve immediately.