About Peking Duck
Peking Duck is one of China's most famous dishes, originating from Beijing (formerly Peking). This iconic dish is known for its thin, crispy skin and tender meat, traditionally served with thin pancakes, spring onions, cucumber, and sweet bean sauce. The preparation process is an art form that has been perfected over centuries.
Preparation Process
- Air-drying the duck for several hours
- Glazing with maltose syrup
- Hanging in a special oven
- Roasting until the skin is crispy
- Carving tableside by a skilled chef
Traditional Accompaniments
- Thin wheat pancakes (春饼)
- Spring onions (葱)
- Cucumber strips (黄瓜)
- Sweet bean sauce (甜面酱)
- Garlic paste (optional)
Cultural Significance
Peking Duck has a history dating back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and was originally a dish served in the imperial court. Today, it's considered a symbol of Chinese cuisine and is often served at important banquets and celebrations. The dish represents the pinnacle of Chinese culinary artistry and is a must-try for visitors to Beijing.
Dining Experience
The serving of Peking Duck is a theatrical experience. A skilled chef carves the duck tableside, separating the crispy skin from the meat with precise cuts. The skin is served first, followed by the meat. Diners assemble their own wraps by spreading sauce on a pancake, adding duck, spring onions, and cucumber, then rolling it up.
Where to Try
While Peking Duck can be found in Chinese restaurants worldwide, the most authentic experience is in Beijing. Famous restaurants include Quanjude (全聚德) and Da Dong (大董), which have been serving this dish for generations. These establishments maintain traditional preparation methods and offer the complete dining experience.