Duck Breasts with Cherries

• 4 boneless duck breasts, about 7oz (200g) each
• ½ tsp salt, plus more to taste
• ½ tsp lightly crushed black peppercorns, plus more to taste

For the sauce

• 1 tbsp butter
  
  

  Prepare ahead

  The sauce can be made and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance.

  1. Score the skin of each duck breast with a sharp knife. Season with the salt and crushed pepper.

  2. Place the duck breasts, skin-side down, in a large frying pan. Cook over medium-high heat for about 8 minutes. Turn and brown the other sides, about 3 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer to a carving board and let stand for 5 minutes.

  3. To make the sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook, stirring often, about 2 minutes, until softened.

  4. Stir in the port, maple syrup, star anise, and rosemary, and boil for 30 seconds. Add the stock and boil for about 3 minutes, or until slightly reduced. Add the cherries, and cook for 2 minutes more, until heated. Season with salt and pepper. Slice each breast on the diagonal into thick slices and transfer each to a plate. Top with the sauce and serve hot.