How is Peking Duck Prepared?

When it comes to iconic Chinese dishes, Peking duck is a culinary masterpiece that has captured the hearts and palates of food lovers around the world. Known for its crispy skin, succulent meat, and mouth-watering flavor, Peking duck is a dish that is steeped in tradition and requires precision and skill to prepare.

So, how exactly is Peking duck prepared? Let’s take a closer look at the step-by-step process of preparing this delectable dish.

Step 1: Selecting the Duck

The first step in preparing Peking duck is selecting the right duck. Traditionally, Peking duck is made using a white Pekin duck, which is a breed of duck that has a high fat content and tender meat. The duck is usually around 5-6 pounds and is sourced from farms that specialize in producing ducks for this specific dish.

Step 2: Cleaning and Seasoning

Once the duck has been selected, it is cleaned and seasoned with a mixture of spices and seasonings, such as salt, sugar, soy sauce, and ginger. The duck is then left to marinate for several hours or even overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Air-Drying

After marinating, the duck is then air-dried to ensure that the skin becomes crispy when roasted. This process involves hanging the duck in a cool, dry place for several hours to allow the skin to dry out and become crispy.

Step 4: Roasting

Once the duck has been air-dried, it is ready for roasting. Traditionally, Peking duck is roasted in a specialized oven that is heated with fruit wood, such as apple or pear wood, to impart a unique flavor to the meat. The duck is hung in the oven and rotated regularly to ensure that it cooks evenly and the skin becomes crispy.

Step 5: Carving

Once the duck is fully cooked, it is time to carve and serve. The duck is traditionally carved table-side by a skilled chef, who expertly slices the crispy skin and tender meat into thin slices. The slices are then served with thin pancakes, scallions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce for a truly authentic Peking duck experience.

And there you have it – a step-by-step guide to preparing Peking duck. From selecting the perfect duck to air-drying, roasting, and carving, each step in the process is crucial to creating a dish that is both delicious and memorable. So the next time you’re craving something truly special, why not try your hand at making Peking duck yourself?