During my visit to Bayona, nestled in the heart of New Orleans, I was captivated by its charming ambiance and the innovative dishes that filled the menu. Among the many delightful creations, the Smoked Duck PBJ Sandwich stood out as a true masterpiece. This dish combines the unexpected pairing of duck and peanuts into a harmonious and delightful sandwich. The cashew-peanut butter can be prepared in advance, and the grilled onions add a savory depth. For the best experience, prepare the Apple-Celery Salad just before serving to maintain its crisp freshness. This recipe is sure to impress with its unique flavors and gourmet twist on a classic sandwich.
The Bayona Experience
Our lunch at Bayona was an unforgettable culinary journey. The restaurant, helmed by the renowned Susan Spicer, effortlessly blends the charm of New Orleans with a sophisticated dining experience. The atmosphere, while slightly formal, exudes a welcoming warmth, making it a perfect spot off the bustling Bourbon Street.
My meal began with a simple green salad topped with parmesan, a refreshing start after several days of indulgence in NOLA’s rich cuisine. The highlight, however, was undoubtedly the gnocchi, which was nothing short of spectacular. My friend opted for the famed PBJ Duck Sandwich, a colossal creation that lived up to its reputation. We concluded our meal with a decadent chocolate hazelnut tart, generously sized and utterly delicious.
Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of outdoor seating on a sunny day and the need for better accessibility features, the overall experience was exceptional. Susan Spicer’s culinary prowess shines through in every dish, from the exquisite sweetbreads and scallops to the innovative PBJ Duck Sandwich. While the menu has remained relatively unchanged over the years, the consistent quality and creativity keep patrons coming back for more. Bayona remains a top dining destination in New Orleans, offering a perfect blend of nouveau American and French cuisine that leaves a lasting impression.
Homemade Smoked Duck PBJ Sandwich
Inspired by the unforgettable meal at Bayona, I knew that I have to recreate the standout dish – the Smoked Duck “PBJ” – at home. This sandwich, with its unique combination of flavors and textures, is a testament to Bayona’s innovative culinary approach. Below is a detailed recipe that allows you to bring a piece of this New Orleans gem into your own kitchen.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s share some thoughts in the spirit of chef’s notes as we would say.
Cashew Butter
- The cashew butter will be soft when warm and will stiffen as it chills. Ensure it is at room temperature when spreading on the sandwiches.
- Store any leftover cashew butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the cashew butter through a fine-mesh sieve.
Grilled Red Onions
- Grilled onions can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat them gently before assembling the sandwiches.
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can marinate the onions in balsamic vinegar for 30 minutes before grilling.
Apple-Celery Salad
- For added crunch, you can include a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans in the salad.
- If you prefer a sweeter salad, drizzle a bit of honey over the apple and celery mixture before tossing.
- For super-crisp freshness, prepare the Apple-Celery Salad just before serving.
Smoked Duck PBJ Sandwich
Dive into the culinary delight of a Smoked Duck PBJ Sandwich, a unique twist on the classic PBJ. This recipe features smoked duck, creamy cashew butter, and a zesty apple-celery salad. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home. Inspired by Bayona's innovative flavors, this sandwich is a must-try for any food enthusiast.
4
sandwiches25
minutes15
minutes450
kcal40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
For the Sandwich
2 teaspoons unsalted butter, softened
8 slices whole grain bread
3/4 cup creamy cashew spread (recipe below)
3/4 cup spicy pepper jelly
3/4 pound shredded smoked duck breast
Grilled Red Onions (recipe below)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Cashew Spread
1 cup roasted cashews
1/2 cup roasted peanuts
3 tablespoons pure honey
1 tablespoon dark molasses
Pinch of sea salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Grilled Red Onions
1 large red onion or 2 small ones sliced into 1/4-inch rings
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Apple-Celery Salad
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and thinly sliced
2 celery heart stalks, thinly sliced on the diagonal
1 shallot, finely minced
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon walnut oil (optional) or additional olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt to taste
- Alternative Ingredients
Cashew Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut allergies.
Smoked Duck: Smoked turkey or chicken as a substitute.
Pepper Jelly: Apricot jam with a pinch of chili flakes.
Granny Smith Apple: Any tart apple variety like Honeycrisp.
Directions
- Spread softened butter on both sides of each slice of bread. Grill each side for about 1 minute until lightly toasted. Spread cashew butter on half of the slices and pepper jelly on the other half.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Place shredded duck and grilled onions on a baking sheet and warm in the oven for about 5 minutes.
- Divide the warmed duck and onions among the cashew butter slices. Season with salt and pepper. Top with the pepper jelly slices and cut each sandwich in half.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Roast cashews and peanuts for about 7 minutes; let cool completely. In a food processor, blend nuts with honey, molasses, and salt until smooth. Add softened butter and blend until creamy.
- Toss onion rings with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or broil for about 5 minutes until slightly charred.
- In a medium bowl, combine apple slices, celery hearts, and minced shallot. Toss with olive oil, walnut oil (if using), apple cider vinegar, and salt to taste.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Food Processor
- Nonstick Pan
- baking sheet
- Mixing Bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 15g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 8mg
- Iron: 10mg
FAQ – Smoked Duck PBJ Sandwich
Why is PBJ so filling?
A PBJ sandwich is filling because it combines protein and healthy fats from the peanut butter with carbohydrates from the bread and sugar from the jelly. This combination provides a balanced source of energy that keeps you feeling full longer.
Do you put butter on a PBJ?
Traditionally, butter is not used on a PBJ sandwich. However, in gourmet versions like the Smoked Duck “PBJ,” butter may be used to grill the bread to add extra flavor and texture.
How to jazz up a peanut butter and jelly sandwich?
You can jazz up a PBJ sandwich by adding various ingredients such as:
* Fresh or grilled fruits like bananas, strawberries, or apples
* Nuts and seeds for added crunch
* Different types of nut butters (e.g., almond, cashew)
* Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg
* Savory elements like bacon or smoked meats
* Gourmet jellies or jams with unique flavors
Can I use other types of bread for a PBJ sandwich?
Absolutely! While multigrain bread is a popular choice, you can use any type of bread you prefer, such as white, whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free options.
What is the best type of jelly to use in a PBJ sandwich?
The best type of jelly is subjective and depends on your taste preferences. Common choices include grape, strawberry, raspberry, and apricot. For a gourmet twist, try pepper jelly or other artisanal flavors.
How can I make a PBJ sandwich healthier?
To make a healthier PBJ sandwich, consider using whole grain or multigrain bread, natural or unsweetened peanut butter, and low-sugar or homemade jelly. Adding fresh fruits and seeds can also boost the nutritional value.
What are some good side dishes to serve with a PBJ sandwich?
Some good side dishes to serve with a PBJ sandwich include:
* Fresh fruit or fruit salad
* Veggie sticks with hummus
* A small green salad
* Yogurt or cottage cheese
* Chips or pretzels for a crunchy option
Can I use other nut butters besides peanut butter?
Yes, you can use other nut butters such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Each type of nut butter will bring a unique flavor and texture to the sandwich.
