Cooking duck can be a delicious and rewarding experience. Here's a basic recipe for cooking a whole duck:

Ingredients:
- 1 whole duck (around 4-5 pounds)
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: herbs and spices of your choice (e.g., thyme, rosemary, garlic)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Start by preparing the duck. Remove any giblets or neck from the cavity, and rinse the duck under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Season the duck generously with salt and pepper, both inside and outside the cavity. If desired, you can also add herbs and spices to the cavity or rub them onto the skin.

4. Place the duck on a rack in a roasting pan, breast side up. This will help the fat to drain away from the meat while cooking.

5. Roast the duck in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. If you have a meat thermometer, you can check the internal temperature of the duck. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

6. Occasionally, during the cooking process, you can baste the duck with its own fat that accumulates in the pan. This will help to keep the meat moist and add flavor.

7. Once the duck is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

8. Carve the duck by separating the legs and wings from the body. Then, remove the breasts and slice them against the grain.

9. Serve the duck with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a salad. You can also serve it with a sauce or glaze of your choice, like an orange sauce or a berry reduction.

Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size of the duck and your oven, so it's important to monitor it closely and adjust accordingly. Enjoy your homemade roasted duck!