Sichuan duck & watermelon salad

First, make the dressing. Crush the peppercorns using a pestle and mortar until finely ground. Mix in the chilli flakes, garlic and ginger.

Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over a medium-high heat for 1 min, then carefully pour the hot oil into the peppercorn mix. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar and honey and stir well to combine, then set aside.

Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Pat the skin of the duck breast dry using kitchen paper, then score the skin and season with salt on both sides.

Lay the duck skin-side down in a hot, dry, non-stick pan set over a medium heat. Cook undisturbed for 5 mins, until the skin is golden brown and crisp. Turn and cook for 1 min more, then transfer to a baking tray. Roast for 10 mins for pink, or longer if you prefer. Transfer to a chopping board to rest for 10 mins, then slice into thin strips.

Gently bash the cucumber with a rolling pin until it breaks up into large pieces, then chop these into bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a large bowl along with the spring onions, watermelon, coriander and some seasoning. Add all but 2 tbsp of the dressing, and toss to coat.

Transfer the salad to a platter and top with the duck slices. Drizzle the remaining dressing over, then serve.