Two whole smoked ducks became dinner, flatbreads, stock and eventually an unforgettable gumbo. It all started with a flavorful brine, a little patience and The Grill-Meister’s smoker.

Our first night in Bavaria began at Restaurant Brunnenstadl in Oberstdorf, with our German cousins, a celebratory smoked duck dinner, glossy red cabbage and a Texas-sized potato ball.

Wine Spectator provides a perfect “cooking with friends” menu with duck and root vegetables. Try this at home with friends.