18 Chinese Westlake Duck Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 22, 2024
West Lake Duck, also known as Hangzhou Roast Duck, is a famous dish in Chinese cuisine that originates from the beautiful city of Hangzhou. This dish has been enjoyed by Chinese emperors and civilians alike for centuries, and has even been praised by the esteemed poet Su Dongpo in his famous poem "On the West Lake Duck." The dish is known for its succulent and crispy skin, as well as its tender and flavorful meat. In this article, we will delve into the history and recipe of this delectable dish, so you can recreate it at home and experience a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine.
Main Ingredients: Duck, Pepper, Kosher Salt, Ginger, Garlic Bulb, Green
Roasted duck with Chinese steamed buns is a classic and delicious dish that combines tender, succulent duck meat with fluffy, steamed buns. The rich flavors of the roasted duck pair perfectly with the soft, pillowy buns, creating a mouth-watering combination that is sure to satisfy your cravings. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves Chinese cuisine or is looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy duck.
In Chinese cuisine, duck is a popular and versatile meat that is used in a variety of dishes. From roasted duck to braised duck, there are countless ways to prepare this flavorful protein. One of the most beloved ways to enjoy duck in Chinese cuisine is by serving it with steamed buns. This traditional method of cooking and serving duck has been enjoyed for centuries and continues to be a favorite among food lovers.
For a flavorful twist on the classic roasted duck with steamed buns, try using duck legs instead. Duck legs are a great option for those who prefer dark meat or want a more budget-friendly alternative to a whole roasted duck. The meat from duck legs is tender and juicy, making it perfect for pairing with fluffy buns and rich sauces.
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Chinese Inspired & Simplified
Main Ingredients: Duck, Hoisin Sauce, Honey, Salt, 5 Spice Powder, White
While traditional Chinese recipes for roasted duck with steamed buns can be time-consuming and complex, there are simplified versions that are just as delicious. These Chinese-inspired recipes use common ingredients and simplified cooking techniques to create a dish that is easy to make but still bursting with flavor. This is a great option for those who want to enjoy the flavors of Chinese cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Crispy Chinese Duck with Garnishes
Main Ingredients: Spice, Szechuan Pepper, Black Peppercorns, Cumin
For a more elevated version of roasted duck with steamed buns, try adding some crispy garnishes to your dish. Crispy duck skin, roasted vegetables, and fresh herbs are all great options for adding texture and flavor to your meal. These garnishes not only make your dish look more visually appealing, but they also add a delicious crunch and burst of flavor to each bite.
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Chinese Duck & Five-Spice Pies
Main Ingredients: Duck, Vegetable Oil, Shallots, All Purpose Flour
If you're a fan of savory pies, you'll love this Chinese-inspired version featuring tender duck meat and aromatic five-spice seasoning. The combination of rich, succulent duck and warm, fragrant spices creates a mouth-watering pie that is sure to become a new favorite. Serve with steamed buns on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Sour Plum Duck, A Hakka Chinese Classic
Main Ingredients: Duck, Salt, White Pepper, Ground Ginger, Canola Oil
Sour plum duck, also known as "xiang su ya" in Hakka Chinese cuisine, is a classic and beloved dish that combines the tangy flavors of sour plum with succulent roasted duck. This dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a great option for those who prefer a less sweet flavor in their dishes. Serve with steamed buns to soak up all the delicious sauce.
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Roasted Braised Duck
Main Ingredients: Duck, Oil, Fresh Ginger, Garlic, Rock Sugar, Chinese
For a twist on traditional roasted duck, try braising it for a tender and flavorful result. Braising involves cooking the duck in a flavorful liquid, such as broth or wine, for a longer period of time. This method allows the meat to become more tender and absorb more of the delicious flavors from the braising liquid. Serve with steamed buns and your choice of vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Sichuan Crispy Duck
Main Ingredients: Duck, Shaoxing Wine, Ginger, Scallions, Salt, Sichuan
Sichuan crispy duck, also known as "xiang su ya" in Mandarin Chinese, is a popular dish known for its mouth-watering crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. This dish is often served with a spicy Sichuan sauce, adding a unique and delicious kick to the traditional roasted duck with steamed buns. For those who love a little heat in their meals, this recipe is a must-try.
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Pancakes With Crispy Peking Duck
Main Ingredients: Duck, Ginger, Salt, Five Spice Powder, Flour, Water
Pancakes with crispy Peking duck is a popular dish that originated from the city of Beijing. This dish combines tender and flavorful Peking duck with soft, thin pancakes and a variety of toppings and sauces. The contrast of textures and flavors in this dish makes it a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.
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Braised Duck with Taro
Main Ingredients: Duck, Taro, Oil, Rock Sugar, Ginger, Garlic, Scallions
Taro is a starchy root vegetable that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. When cooked with braised duck, it adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish. The taro becomes soft and creamy, complementing the tender duck meat and creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Serve with steamed buns on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Roast Duck Pad See-ew Noodles
Main Ingredients: Rice Noodles, Light Soy Sauce, Dark Soy Sauce, Sugar
Pad see-ew is a popular dish in Thai cuisine that features wide rice noodles stir-fried with meat, vegetables, and a savory sauce. This recipe adds a Chinese twist by using succulent roasted duck as the protein. The rich flavors of the duck pair perfectly with the sweet and savory sauce, creating a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Szechuan Fragrant Crispy Duck (Xiang Su Ya)
Main Ingredients: Szechuan Peppercorns, Spice, Salt, Duck, Shaoxing Rice
Szechuan fragrant crispy duck, also known as "xiang su ya" in Mandarin Chinese, is a delicious and aromatic dish that features crispy duck coated in fragrant spices and served with a variety of vegetables. This dish is perfect for those who love bold and spicy flavors, as the Szechuan spices add a unique and delicious kick to the juicy duck meat.
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Steamed Pork with Salted Egg
Main Ingredients: Ground Pork, Duck, Root Ginger, Spring Onions, Garlic
Salted egg is a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine that adds a unique and delicious flavor to dishes. In this recipe, tender steamed pork is paired with salted egg for a rich and flavorful meal. This dish is a great alternative to roasted duck for those who prefer pork or want to try something new and different.
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Singapore Teochew Braised Duck (Lor Ark)
Main Ingredients: Duck, Salt, Rub, Cooking Oil, Dark Soy Sauce, Soy
Teochew braised duck, also known as "lor ark" in Singaporean cuisine, is a classic and beloved dish that features tender duck braised in a flavorful soy sauce-based broth. This dish is loved for its rich and savory flavors, and is often served with steamed buns and a variety of vegetables. The slow braising process ensures that the duck is tender and full of delicious flavor in every bite.
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Shredded Duck Burger with Plum Sauce
Main Ingredients: Duck, Five Spice, Salt, Pepper, Onion, Star Anise
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful twist on the classic burger, try using shredded duck meat as the protein. The rich and succulent duck pairs perfectly with the tangy and sweet plum sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying burger that is sure to impress. Top with your favorite burger toppings and serve with steamed buns on the side for a complete meal.
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Duck Gyoza
Main Ingredients: Duck, Spring Onions, Ginger, Soy Sauce, Potato Starch
Gyoza is a popular Japanese dish that features dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat and vegetables. This recipe adds a Chinese twist by using succulent duck meat as the filling. The rich and savory flavors of the duck are balanced by the light and crispy gyoza wrapper, creating a delicious and satisfying appetizer or meal.
Stir fry is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of Chinese cuisine, and this recipe featuring tender duck meat and fragrant green onions is no exception. The tender and juicy duck meat is stir-fried with a variety of vegetables and a savory sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Egg Noodle Salad With Barbecue Duck And Hoisin Dressing
Main Ingredients: Meat, Egg, Cucumbers, Coriander Leaves, Garlic Chives
This refreshing and flavorful salad features tender egg noodles, succulent barbecue duck, and a tangy hoisin dressing. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish makes it a satisfying and delicious meal that is perfect for warmer weather. Serve with steamed buns on the side for a complete and filling meal.
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Sous Vide Cantonese Roast Duck (Pipa Duck)
Main Ingredients: Duck, Scallion, Ginger, Garlic, Star Anise, Red Bean
Sous vide cooking involves cooking food in a temperature-controlled water bath for a longer period of time, resulting in perfectly cooked and tender meat. This recipe uses the sous vide method to create a succulent and flavorful Cantonese roast duck, also known as "pipa duck" in Chinese cuisine. Serve with steamed buns and your choice of vegetables for a delicious and impressive meal.
The Origins of West Lake Duck
The origins of West Lake Duck can be traced back to the Southern Song Dynasty, which ruled China from 1127 to 1279. During this time, the imperial court moved from the northern capital of Kaifeng to the southern city of Hangzhou, bringing with them their love for duck dishes. The chefs in Hangzhou embraced this new ingredient and created the first version of West Lake Duck, which was served to the emperor and his court. Over time, the dish became popular among the locals and was eventually spread throughout China.
The Secret to Perfectly Roasted Duck
The key to a delicious West Lake Duck lies in its roasting technique. The ducks are first marinated in a mixture of sugar, salt, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder, which gives the meat its signature flavor. Then, the ducks are hung in an oven or hung over a fire to roast, allowing the fat to melt and the skin to become crispy. To achieve an even crispiness, the ducks are constantly rotated during the roasting process. This method ensures that the meat remains tender and juicy while the skin becomes golden and crunchy.
Accompaniments to West Lake Duck
While the duck is the star of the dish, there are several accompaniments that elevate its flavor and texture. One of the most important accompaniments is the pancakes, which are used to wrap the duck meat and add a soft and chewy element to each bite. Other common accompaniments include scallions, cucumbers, and sweet bean sauce, which add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the duck. Some restaurants also serve plum sauce or hoisin sauce for a sweet and tangy kick.
Create Your Own West Lake Duck Feast
Now that you have learned about the history and recipe of West Lake Duck, it's time to try it out for yourself. While the traditional method of roasting the ducks may be difficult to replicate at home, there are several variations and shortcuts that you can try. For example, you can use an oven instead of an open fire, or opt for pre-marinated ducks from your local Asian market. Whichever method you choose, make sure to serve the duck with the recommended accompaniments and enjoy a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine in your own home.
In Conclusion
West Lake Duck is not just a dish, but a cultural symbol that represents the rich history and traditions of China. Its succulent and crispy texture, combined with its flavorful marinade and accompaniments, make it a must-try for any food lover. So why not gather your friends and family, and have a delicious West Lake Duck feast that will transport you to the beautiful city of Hangzhou.
