Duck Breast with Cherry Chutney

1 . Stage

Method for Chutney and Glaze: Heat oil in a 2- to 3-quart heavy saucepan over moderate heat until hot but not smoking. Then cook onion, garlic, and shallot, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 7 minutes. Add tomato paste, black pepper, cumin, hot pepper flakes, and 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, 30 seconds. Reduce heat to medium and add bell pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in wine, vinegar (to taste), and sugar and simmer approximately 5 minutes. Stir in mustard, 1 1/2 cups cherries, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and simmer 1 minute. Allow to cool slightly and reserve all but 1/4 cup of the mix to the side. Place 1/4 cup mix in a blender and puree until very smooth, about 1 minute (use caution when blending hot liquids). Reserve for glazing duck. To finish the chutney, add the remaining 1 1/2 cups cherries, raisins, and tarragon or chives. Can be prepared one day ahead.

2 . Stage

Put oven rack in middle position and preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Score duck skin in a crosshatch pattern with a small sharp knife and season duck all over with salt and pepper.

3 . Stage

Heat water in an ovenproof 12-inch heavy skillet over low heat until hot, then add duck, skin side down. Cook duck, uncovered, over low heat, without turning, until most of fat is rendered (melted) and skin is golden brown, about 25 minutes.

4 . Stage

Transfer duck to a plate and discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from skillet. Brush duck all over with cherry glaze and return to skillet, skin side up.

5 . Stage

Roast duck in oven until thermometer registers 135 degrees, about 8 minutes for medium-rare. Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes.

6 . Stage

Holding a sharp knife at a 45-degree angle, cut duck into slices. Serve with cherry chutney and molasses whipped sweet potato.