How Duck Meat is Changing the Game of Red Meat Choices
POSTED: 01/17/2022
Duck meat. Is it red or white?
This seems like an easy question to answer. But after you bite into a perfectly prepared duck, the full flavor will make you question that assumption.
Technically speaking, duck is a white meat. As a member of the poultry family, it has similarities to chicken and turkey. However, duck is also considered a red meat by many culinary professionals because of both the color and the flavor.
Why Does Duck Taste Like Red Meat?
Duck meat has more iron than other protein options like turkey, Cornish game hen, chicken and even some cuts of beef. It’s this higher amount of iron that gives duck meat its rich flavor and dark color.
The type of duck also impacts the taste. Here at Maple Leaf Farms, we only raise White Pekin Ducks, which are notably less gamey than other breeds.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Duck Meat?
Duck offers more than just delicious flavor. It’s also a healthier option because duck is:
Lower in calories and fat than most other proteins
Full of monounsaturated healthy fats that help lower LDL cholesterol
Packed with essential nutrients like vitamin E, niacin, and selenium
Pairing these benefits with the red meat flavor makes duck an excellent substitute for steak, beef, pork chops and other meats that are current staples in your kitchen.
How Do I Cook Duck?
Duck can be an intimidating protein for many at-home chefs, but it doesn’t have to be. If you can cook chicken and beef, you already know how to cook duck.
To give you that extra boost of confidence, here are helpful resources that will walk you through the process. With recipes ranging from easy to expert, you’ll find something perfect for your next meal.
So, is duck red meat? Yes and no. It offers the taste and look of red meat while also providing many of the health benefits found in white meat.
It’s this middle ground that makes duck so unique and special.
