17 Chinese Beijing Roast Duck Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!

Published on: Mar 22, 2024

For centuries, Peking duck has been a staple dish in Chinese cuisine, with its origins tracing back to the imperial kitchens of Beijing. Also known as Beijing roast duck, this dish is a perfect combination of tender and juicy meat with crispy skin, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. In this article, we will share with you a professional and well-organized introduction to the Chinese Beijing roast duck recipe, so you can recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen.

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The History of Peking Duck

The Origins of Peking Duck

Peking duck has a long and rich history, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty in 1271 when it was originally served as a royal dish in the imperial courts of Beijing. It was not until the Ming Dynasty that Peking duck became a staple dish in the city, with the establishment of the famous Quanjude restaurant, which specialized in roasting ducks in a traditional oven. Since then, Peking duck has become a symbol of Chinese cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting Beijing.

The Traditional Preparation Method

The preparation of Peking duck is a time-consuming and meticulous process, which is why it is considered a delicacy. The first step involves selecting a premium quality duck, preferably a white feathered Long Island duck, which is then air-dried for hours before being marinated with a special blend of spices and seasoning, including honey, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder. The duck is then roasted in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature for about an hour until the skin turns a golden brown and the meat is tender and juicy.

The Perfect Serving of Peking Duck

The Art of Carving

Once the duck is fully cooked, it is brought to the table whole, where a skilled chef will perform the traditional carving technique to serve the dish. The carving process involves separating the skin from the meat and slicing the skin into thin, bite-sized pieces, while the meat is cut into thin strips. The skin is then served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce, while the meat can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces and vegetables.

Tradition Meets Modernity

While the traditional way of serving Peking duck remains popular, many restaurants have modernized the dish to cater to a wider audience. Some restaurants offer healthier options by removing the skin and serving the meat with a variety of fresh salads. Others have incorporated fusion elements by adding different flavors and seasoning, such as truffle oil or cumin, to the marinade or serving it with fruit salsa. These modern twists have allowed Peking duck to remain a popular and versatile dish in Chinese cuisine. In conclusion, the Chinese Beijing roast duck recipe is a perfect representation of the rich history and culture of Beijing. Its meticulous preparation and unique serving style make it a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Chinese cuisine. Whether you prefer the traditional method or are open to trying modern variations, Peking duck is a dish that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and create unforgettable memories.