Poultry
Indian Runner
C tier
Indian Runner ducks stand nearly upright and were bred for eggs and pest control more than roasting weight. Meat birds are slim and athletic, with thin fat cover and a mild, slightly gamey farm flavour best suited to slow moist methods or highly seasoned stir-fries. Joint and braise, or confit the small legs in added fat. Whole roasting works only for younger birds with careful basting. Runners reward cooks who value nose-to-tail farm use rather than classic magret presentation.
Also known as: Runner-type duck, Indian Runner
Track this ingredient
Characteristics
Preparations
Traits
History
Upright utility ducks from the Indonesian archipelago were noticed by traders and colonials.
Runners arrived in Europe and were developed into colour varieties for eggs and ornament.
Indian Runners became popular British utility and exhibition ducks.
Homesteaders kept Runners for eggs and garden slug control with incidental meat.