Duck And Pumpkin Risotto With Toasted Pumpkin Seeds And Duck Cracklings

Once the duck is roasted, remove the skin and cut it into a julienne, about 1 cup. Render the skin in a large skillet over high heat, stir-frying until crisp and brown, for about 6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Shred the duck meat from the bones, about 21/2 cups.

In a medium size sauce pan, over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon duck fat add the onions, garlic, and sage, and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the rice and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in 1 cup of the stock, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally until all the liquid has evaporated. Continue to cook adding the stock in 1 cup increments until all of the liquid has been absorbed  and the rice is tender and creamy, for about 18 minutes total. Add the heavy cream and butter and cook for 2 to 3 minutes longer.

Fold in the pumpkin and shredded duck meat.

To serve, allow 2 cups risotto each for 4 main-course servings; 1 cup each for 8 first-course servings. Serve in bowls and sprinkle with cracklings, pumpkin seeds, and Parmesan.