Peking Duck is one of China’s most iconic traditional dishes, renowned both domestically and internationally. Known for its unique roasting method and carefully selected ingredients, Peking Duck embodies the essence of Beijing’s culinary tradition and represents Chinese cuisine on a global stage. Let’s dive into the origins, stories, preparation, and unique ways of savoring this iconic dish.
History and Origin of Peking Duck
The origins of Peking Duck can be traced back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). It is said that the roasting techniques for duck were already well-developed during this time, and by the Ming Dynasty, it had become a key dish in the imperial court. Court chefs in the Ming Dynasty developed the “hanging oven” roasting method, which later spread to Beijing. In the Qing Dynasty, the dish became increasingly refined and is now famous as “hanging oven” and “closed oven” methods for roasting.
Peking Duck’s rise to prominence was also due to some long-established restaurant brands, such as Quanjude, founded in 1864. Quanjude has set high standards in technique, ingredient quality, and dining ambiance, cementing Peking Duck’s reputation in the culinary world. Through efforts by such establishments, Peking Duck grew from a local specialty to a globally recognized delicacy.
Characteristics of Peking Duck
Peking Duck is celebrated for its crispy skin, tender meat, and vibrant red-brown appearance. A well-prepared Peking Duck has thin, crisp skin with a light golden-brown hue after roasting, while the meat underneath remains juicy and naturally sweet. Traditionally, fruitwood (like pear or jujube wood) is used for roasting, giving the duck a unique fruity aroma.
How to Make Peking Duck
Making authentic Peking Duck involves careful preparation and precise steps. Here’s a simplified version:
Ingredients:
- Peking duck (a well-fattened duck weighing 3-4 kg)
- Honey glaze (honey, white vinegar, water)
- Fruitwood (such as pear or jujube wood)
- Thin pancake wraps
- Sweet bean paste, sliced spring onions, cucumber sticks
Steps:
- Preparing the Duck: Start by cleaning the duck and removing the organs. Air is pumped under the skin to separate it slightly from the meat, which helps create a crispy texture when roasting.
- Brushing with Honey Glaze: Mix honey, vinegar, and water to create a diluted honey glaze, then brush it evenly on the duck’s surface. Hang the duck in a well-ventilated area to dry, allowing the skin to tighten and dry out. This enhances the color and flavor.
- Roasting the Duck: Peking Duck traditionally uses either a hanging oven or closed oven method. In the hanging oven method, the duck is suspended and roasted over fruitwood fire. Temperature control is key, and the duck is roasted for about 40 minutes until its skin achieves a beautiful red-brown color.
- Removing the Duck: Once roasted, the duck’s skin is crisp and the meat remains juicy. The exterior is a beautiful red-brown shade.
- Slicing and Plating: A trained chef typically slices the duck into thin pieces with both skin and meat in each slice, showcasing skillful knife work and ensuring delicate, paper-thin portions.
- Serving with Accompaniments: Traditionally, Peking Duck is eaten with thin pancakes, sweet bean paste, spring onions, and cucumber sticks. This combination of ingredients provides a balance of crispy, savory, and fresh flavors.
Cultural Significance of Peking Duck
Peking Duck is more than just a dish—it carries profound cultural significance. It reflects Beijing’s rich history and, through its intricate preparation and complex layers of flavor, represents the spirit of Chinese culinary arts. The choice of ingredients, the precision in cooking techniques, and the etiquette surrounding its presentation all showcase a dedication to craft.
In addition to being beloved among locals, Peking Duck has also become a dish of choice for diplomatic banquets, bridging culinary exchanges between China and other countries. Many foreign dignitaries and notable visitors to China have been treated to Peking Duck, helping it to become a symbol of cultural exchange and mutual respect.
Home-Style Peking Duck
Although making traditional Peking Duck at home can be challenging, a simplified version can still offer a taste of this beloved dish.
Home Recipe:
- Clean the store-bought duck, then apply honey glaze evenly on its surface and let it dry.
- Roast the duck in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 30 minutes, then lower the heat for an additional 20 minutes.
- If possible, add wood chips like jujube or apple to enhance the flavor.
While not identical to the restaurant version, this home-cooked duck still delivers a crispy, juicy result, making it an enjoyable alternative for family meals.
Conclusion
Peking Duck is a masterpiece of Chinese cuisine that combines flavor, technique, and culture into one iconic dish. As both a beloved family meal and an esteemed diplomatic dish, Peking Duck has earned its place in the hearts of food lovers worldwide.
