Peking Duck Recipe - Kerala Food Channel
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Peking Duck Recipe: How to make Peking Duck?

ByFood & Recipes Channel

Peking Duck is a celebrated Chinese dish known for its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. Traditionally served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced scallions, this dish is a feast for the senses. The combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, along with the delightful textures, makes Peking Duck a special treat for any occasion. While the traditional preparation can be time-consuming, this recipe offers a simplified method that brings the authentic taste of Peking Duck into your kitchen without the need for a professional kitchen setup.

Ingredients:

For the Duck:

  • 1 whole duck (about 4-5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons maltose or honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • 12-16 thin Chinese pancakes or tortillas
  • Hoisin sauce
  • 4-6 scallions, thinly sliced
  • Cucumber, julienned (optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Duck:

  1. Clean the Duck: Rinse the duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any excess fat from the cavity.
  2. Season the Duck: Rub the inside of the duck with salt and sprinkle the five-spice powder inside the cavity. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine maltose (or honey), soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a splash of water. Heat over low until the maltose is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Glaze the Duck: Using a brush, coat the outside of the duck with the glaze. Ensure even coverage for a beautiful finish.
  5. Air-Dry the Duck: For the best crispiness, hang the duck in a cool, dry place for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). If you don’t have a place to hang it, place it on a rack in the refrigerator, uncovered.

Cooking the Duck:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roast the Duck: Place the duck on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1 hour, basting with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
  3. Finish Cooking: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes until the skin is crispy.
  4. Rest the Duck: Once cooked, remove the duck from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving.

Serving the Duck:

  1. Carve the Duck: Using a sharp knife, carve the duck into thin slices, ensuring to include some skin with each piece.
  2. Assemble the Pancakes: To serve, spread a thin layer of hoisin sauce on a pancake, add a few slices of duck, and top with scallions and cucumber. Roll it up and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

Peking Duck is best enjoyed with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables (like bok choy or broccoli)
  • A light, refreshing beverage such as jasmine tea or a crisp white wine.

Nutritional Information:

Peking Duck is rich in protein and provides essential vitamins and minerals. The duck meat is a good source of B vitamins, iron, and zinc. While it is higher in fat due to the skin, the dish can be balanced with fresh vegetables and served in moderation.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use a different type of duck?
    • Yes, while Peking Duck traditionally uses a specific breed, you can use other ducks like Muscovy or Pekin, but the texture and flavor may vary.
  2. Is it necessary to air-dry the duck?
    • Yes, air-drying helps to achieve that signature crispy skin. If you skip this step, the skin may not be as crispy.
  3. Can I make Peking Duck in advance?
    • While the duck is best served fresh, you can prepare the glaze and season the duck in advance. However, the roasting should be done just before serving.
  4. What can I substitute for hoisin sauce?
    • You can use a mixture of soy sauce, peanut butter, and sugar as a substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly.
  5. Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
    • Yes, this recipe is designed to be accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are easy to find.

Conclusion:

This simplified Peking Duck recipe allows you to enjoy a classic dish at home without the complexity of traditional methods. With crispy skin, tender meat, and fresh accompaniments, it’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this Peking Duck will bring the flavors of China right to your dining table.

This recipe provides a solid foundation for anyone looking to make Peking Duck, balancing accessibility with authenticity. If you need further elaboration on any section or additional tips, feel free to ask!

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