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Blackberry and thyme balsamic duck with next-level flavour

If you think balsamic is just for salads, it’s time to think again…

Apr 07, 2026 | 5 minutes to read | Great British Food

We are huge fans of the balsamic glazes from Great British Food Award winner Burren Balsamics – and so is our judge Raymond Blanc, who finds their products delicious! ⠀

What we like most is the versatility of these products. Deglaze a pan as the foundation of a sauce; trickle over fresh fruit as a dessert; stir into iced sparkling water and enjoy as a drink; or brush over meat, vegetables or fish to bring added brightness and intrigue to a dish. ⠀

Here we're showcasing the brand’s stunning Blackberry & Thyme Infused Balsamic Vinegar, alongside duck and beetroot. It’s a match made in heaven. ⠀

Ingredients (serves 2) ⠀ 

  • 2 duck breasts 
  • Burren Balsamics Blackberry & Thyme Infused Balsamic Vinegar 
  • 300g beetroot 
  • 1 small bunch fresh thyme 
  • Melted butter for brushing 
  • Seasoning 
  • Greens to serve ⠀ 

Method ⠀ 

1. Salt the duck and leave, uncovered, in the fridge overnight. ⠀ 

2. Remove the duck from the fridge 1-2 hours before cooking, draining away any liquid and patting completely dry, trimming the edges to neaten, and scoring the fat with a sharp knife. ⠀ 

3. For the beetroot galettes, peel the beetroot, wrap in foil, and roast in the oven at 200C for 30 minutes. Allow to cool. Slice with a mandoline and layer in moulds with a brush of butter, sprinkle of fresh thyme, seasoning and a sprinkle of Burren Balsamics Blackberry & Thyme Infused Balsamic Vinegar between each layer. ⠀ 

4. Press down and top with a layer of greaseproof and baking beans to compress. Bake at 200C for 30 minutes. ⠀ 

5. Ten minutes into the cooking of the galettes, prepare the duck. Place, skin side down, in a hot pan for five minutes. Turn over, and sear on the other side for another minute. ⠀ 

6. Move the duck breasts into a baking dish to join the beetroot galettes. Cook for 15 minutes. Brush all over with balsamic glaze and return to the oven for 2-3 minutes. ⠀ 

7. Remove from the oven. Allow the duck to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with some steamed greens, the beetroot galette and a sprinkling of balsamic glaze.

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