Game Day Jerk Duck Nachos

There's something magical that happens on the first NFL Sunday of the season. For me, it always brings back memories of my dad going to the old RFK stadium in DC.  My mom would pack my dad sandwiches and a portable bar for him to take to the Redskin games.  He had season tickets for over 30 years. Great memories!

Last year, I published the Jerk Duck Nachos recipe.  I looove this dish. It's worthy of a repeat and game day tradition.

When Comfort Food Gets Its Glow-Up

The duck—tender and falling apart, kissed with warm jerk spices—transforms ordinary nachos into something that tastes like a beautiful blend of your favorite Caribbean vacation and your coziest Sunday afternoon.

The Heart of the Dish - Our Jerk Duck:

• 2 duck breasts
• 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
  

The Beautiful Supporting Cast:

• Thick, sturdy tortilla chips (think restaurant-quality—they're the foundation of greatness)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar, freshly grated (it melts like a dream)
• ½ cup pepper jack (for those who like a little fire with their comfort)
• Black beans, drained and loved
• Quick-pickled red onions (bright pink and absolutely gorgeous)
• Fresh mango, diced into perfect little jewels
• Thinly sliced jalapeños (adjust to your heat happiness)
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• The easiest lime crema (sour cream + lime zest + salt + love)
• Guacamole (Optional)

Let's Create Something Beautiful:

Here's the thing I love about this recipe—it's forgiving and fun, just like the best game day 

Steps:

Duck Breast Steps

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

   • Score the skin of the duck breasts in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.

   • In a small bowl, mix the jerk seasoning, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper.

   • Rub the jerk seasoning mixture all over the duck breasts, making sure to coat them evenly.

   • Place the duck breasts on the grill or grill pan, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and browned.

   • Flip the duck breasts and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes

   • Remove the duck breasts from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.

   • Shred duck breast meat.
     
     Nacho Steps

2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Spread a layer of tortilla chips on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish.

   • Sprinkle half of the shredded jerk duck meat evenly over the chips.

   • Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the duck meat.

   • Repeat the layers with the remaining duck meat and cheese.

   • Add diced mango, red onion, and jalapenos on top.

   • Place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime crema, and guacamole if desired.

   • Serve the jerk duck nachos warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Wine Recommendations 

Narcisso Midnight Red Blend

2023 Big Cork Russian Kiss White

Eppa Red Sangria

Sip and Share Abundance Sweet Red

So pour yourself something delicious, turn up your favorite pre-game playlist, and let's show this football season what real hospitality looks like. We're right here cheering you on! 🍷

Raise Hail . Go Commanders