Fire & Ice

Shredded Hoisin Duck Napoleon

Duck? Me? Seriously? Seriously. This one took me surprise. I’m not a big duck fan – too rich and gamey – but this appetizer is duck for beginners, and now this beginner is ready for duck for intermediates. Tender, flavorful chunks of hoisin duck breast, pineapple mango salsa and guacamole were sandwiched in between layers of wonton triangles and finished with crème fraiche and Thai chili sauce. The richness of the duck was cut by the zesty chili sauce, and in turn, the crème fraiche and guacamole cooled the heat back down. This starter was a looker – but not to put style over substance, it was really tasty too. After one bite, all my visions of Daffy in a holding pen went, ahem, flying out the window.