Sous Vide Duck Breast

1 . Stage

Cut several very shallow crosswise slashes across the skin of each duck breast about 1/2 inch apart. (The cuts should only barely cut into the skin and fat; don't cut into the meat.) Season skin sides with salt, then generously season meat sides with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place into a heavy-duty resealable plastic bag, squeeze out all the air, and seal. Refrigerate for 1 hour.

2 . Stage

Fill a large Dutch oven about 2/3 full with water and place over medium heat; heat to 135 degrees F (57 degrees C). Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the Dutch oven in order to monitor and maintain the water temperature. Place a silicone hot pad into the bottom of the pot to keep the plastic bag from contacting the bottom of the pan.

3 . Stage

Place the sealed plastic bag into the Dutch oven. Cook, moving the bag around occasionally and adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain the temperature at 135 degrees F (57 degrees C), for 1 hour.

4 . Stage

Remove duck breasts from the plastic bag and pat dry. Generously season skin sides with salt.

5 . Stage

Heat oil in a skillet over high heat. Place duck breasts, skin-side down, in the hot skillet until fat renders and skin is golden brown, 5 minutes. Turn breasts over and cook until lightly browned and meat still pink in the center, 1 minute. Let rest for 2 minutes before slicing. Chef John