Smoked Duck and Kabocha Squash Bake (Air Fryer)
[Air Fryer] Deliciously Sweet & Savory Smoked Duck and Kabocha Squash Bake 😀
Thinking about how to deliciously enjoy the kabocha squash my mother-in-law gave me, I decided to pair it with smoked duck and create this dish 😀
Ingredients
- 1 Kabocha squash
- 2 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup)
- A little cooking oil
- 2 blocks minced garlic (approx. 1 Tbsp)
- 2 handfuls whole garlic cloves
- 450g Smoked duck slices
- 2 Tbsp oyster sauce
- A pinch of black pepper
- 150g Pizza cheese
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Thoroughly wash the kabocha squash under running water. Since we’ll be using the peel, ensure it’s cleaned well.
Step 2
After washing and drying the squash, place it in a sealed plastic bag. Microwave for about 4 minutes to slightly soften the inside, making it easier to scoop out later.
Step 3
Carefully remove the hot squash from the microwave. Cut off the top portion to create a lid. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and pulp from the inside. Be very careful to avoid cutting yourself with the knife or spoon.
Step 4
Spread 2 tablespoons of oligodang evenly on the inside surface of the hollowed-out squash. This will enhance the sweetness and create a delightful sweet-and-savory balance with the duck.
Step 5
Now, let’s prepare to sauté the smoked duck. Heat a pan over medium-low heat with a little cooking oil. Add the minced garlic (2 blocks or about 1 Tbsp) and stir-fry until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 6
Once the garlic aroma is released, add the whole garlic cloves (about 2 handfuls) and sauté them together. Whole garlic cloves add a pleasant texture and a milder garlic flavor.
Step 7
When the whole garlic is slightly cooked and aromatic, add the smoked duck slices. Since the duck is already smoked and cooked, you only need to sauté it briefly until it’s lightly browned and some fat has rendered.
Step 8
Add 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce and a pinch of black pepper to the sautéed duck. Stir well to coat everything evenly. The oyster sauce will deepen the duck’s flavor and add umami.
Step 9
Generously stuff the sautéed smoked duck mixture into the hollowed-out kabocha squash. Filling it generously will make for a visually appealing and hearty dish.
Step 10
Line your air fryer basket with parchment paper. Place the stuffed kabocha squash and its lid into the basket. Covering it with the lid helps keep the duck moist and prevents ingredients from falling out.
Step 11
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Place the kabocha squash inside and cook for about 10 minutes. Since the squash was partially cooked in the microwave and the duck is already smoked, this step is just to finish cooking and lightly brown the ingredients. Avoid overcooking.
Step 12
After 10 minutes, the kabocha squash and smoked duck should be nicely cooked. Check for doneness.
Step 13
Next, cut the kabocha squash into manageable portions. Once it has cooled slightly, slice the squash into even pieces. Cutting them not too thin will help them hold their shape and prevent the filling from spilling.
Step 14
Evenly sprinkle about 150g of pizza cheese over the cut pieces of kabocha squash. The melted cheese will add a delicious gooeyness and make the dish look even more appetizing.
Step 15
Return the kabocha squash with the cheese to the air fryer basket. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
Step 16
After 5 minutes, your Smoked Duck and Kabocha Squash Bake is ready! As the squash is sliced and cooked again with the cheese, the excess fat from the smoked duck will render out, resulting in a cleaner, less greasy taste.
Step 17
Transfer the finished Smoked Duck and Kabocha Squash Bake to a serving plate. This dish, with its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, makes for a truly satisfying meal!
