Peking Duck is a celebrated dish originating from Beijing, known for its thin, crispy skin and tender meat. Often served with steamed pancakes, green onions, cucumber, and hoisin sauce, this dish is a true feast and embodies the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. Follow this recipe to recreate this classic at home.

Ingredients

1 whole duck (5 lbs / 2.3 kg)

1 tbsp (15 g) salt

1 tbsp (15 ml) white vinegar

1 tbsp (15 ml) honey

5 cups (1.2 L) boiling water

2 tbsp (30 ml) hoisin sauce

2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce

1 tbsp (15 g) sugar

1 tsp (5 g) five-spice powder

12 Chinese pancakes or steamed buns

1 bunch green onions, julienned

1 cucumber, sliced into thin sticks

Instructions

Prepare the Duck Rinse the duck under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Use a small skewer to prick the duck’s skin all over, being careful not to pierce the meat. Rub salt all over the duck and let it rest for 1 hour.

Blanch and Glaze Boil a large pot of water and place the duck on a wire rack over the sink. Slowly pour the boiling water over the duck to tighten the skin. In a small bowl, mix the vinegar and honey. Brush this mixture all over the duck and allow it to air dry for at least 4 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

Roast the Duck Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the duck on a roasting rack and cook for 45 minutes. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden.

Prepare the Sauce In a small saucepan, mix the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and five-spice powder. Warm the sauce over low heat until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

Serve Carefully carve the duck into thin slices. Serve it with Chinese pancakes, green onions, cucumber sticks, and the warm hoisin sauce for dipping.

Serving

Peking Duck is best enjoyed immediately, with each slice wrapped in a pancake with green onion, cucumber, and hoisin sauce.

This homemade Peking Duck recipe brings a touch of traditional Chinese cuisine to your table. The crispy skin and succulent meat paired with pancakes and savory sauce create an unforgettable dining experience.