Rinse duck under cold water then pat dry and rub inside and out with salt and pepper.
Heat butter in a frying pan and lightly braise the apples, onions and thyme leaves in it.
Add the almonds and cook briefly then add the ham cubes. Taste and season as required.
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees C.
Fill the duck with the stuffing and close cavity with skewers.
Place the thyme sprigs on top of the duck and tie down with kitchen string. Place the duck in a casserole dish and pour 1 cup stock over it then add the bay leaves and cloves.
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven. Cook for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours basting every 15 minutes with the stock so that it browns evenly.
When the duck is cooked through remove from the oven and keep warm.
Skim fat off the juices and pour through a sieve into a saucepan. Mix the juices with sour cream and season with salt and pepper then place over medium heat until heated through.