Fried Duck and Waffles

Look at this:

Just look.

I’ve read about how wonderful chicken and waffles can be, but I’m ashamed to say I’ve never actually tried it. It’s the sort of dish that you want to experience for the first time (I’m guessing) at a place that is known for soul food — perhaps Amy Ruth’s in Harlem.

During my recent trip to Northampton, MA, however, a close friend suggested we meet up at good ol’ Dirty for brunch before I left town. I was already game, but as soon as he mentioned fried duck and waffles, it was a done deal.

Fried. Duck. And Waffles.

You can’t even begin to imagine how good this is until you actually try it. While my two co-diners began eating (one of which is officiating our wedding ceremony this summer!), I prepared my waffles. A little butter, a little syrup, the usual. The waffles were pretty tasty on their own. Probably had some cinnamon in the batter. (Am I right?)

But then.

Then I built the perfect bite: waffles dripping with syrup, a big piece of luscious duck meat and that oh-so-crispy skin!

“It’s like I’ve been sleeping my whole life and I just woke up.” That was my response. And it’s true. Crispy, fatty duck with sweet waffles and syrup and butter and — ugh, why haven’t I ordered this before?!

Served alongside coffee in a French press, this was pretty damn close to my idea of a perfect breakfast. 9 times out of 10, I prefer savory to sweet, but this was an ideal marriage of flavors.

To my friends still living in Western Mass — you should probably consider heading to Dirty this Saturday or Sunday (yes, before the big game), and every other weekend, for that matter, to sample their brunch menu. (We already know their dinner menu is fabulous.)

And to the wonderful chefs and cooks at Dirty who fed me during my years as a graduate student many, many a times: please do not remove this item from your menu.

Sincerely,
(Your biggest foodie fan) Ari

The Dirty Truth
29 Main St
Northampton, MA 01060
413.585.5999