Beijing Roast Duck is a distinctive dish of Chinese cuisine.
Beijing Roast Duck is a renowned dish that many families always consider for its delicious and enticing flavor on special occasions. It's no coincidence that this dish is always present on the tables of ceremonial or diplomatic banquets in China. Let's explore this distinctive culinary feature with us
Once a delicacy of the royal court, Beijing Roast Duck is one of China's most renowned dishes, easily recognizable by diners worldwide. Although there are now many variations of this dish, the original recipe allows chefs to master the technique that has truly existed for hundreds of years.
Beijing Roast Duck is a specialty dish of Northeast China, but the best is still found in Beijing, using specially selected Beijing ducks. Legend has it that this dish dates back to the early 15th century during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), but it was during the reign of the Ming emperors that it truly gained fame and recognition.
The name "Peking duck" in English also originates from the old pronunciation of this city. Since its first servings in the imperial courts, during the Qing Dynasty, this roasted duck dish quickly became a staple on the tables of China's elite.
In addition to its culturally and historically significant origins, Beijing Roast Duck further solidified its position when it played a diplomatic role for China in the 20th and 21st centuries. World leaders such as former Cuban President Fidel Castro, former U.S. President Richard Nixon, and former U.S. National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger have all savored Beijing Roast Duck alongside fine Chinese wines.
Today, Beijing Roast Duck still holds its significance by winning the hearts of most diners who taste it. While the recipe for this renowned dish has been widely publicized, not every place can deliver the authentic flavor of Beijing Roast Duck.
What makes Beijing Roast Duck special is its thin, crispy skin, deep golden color, and rich, savory flavor. Accompanied by uniquely prepared seasonings, diners can distinctly taste the deliciousness of the duck meat. From then until now, Beijing Roast Duck remains a characteristic culinary feature of the people of Beijing and Chinese cuisine as a whole.
What makes the brand of Beijing Roast Duck
Anyone who has tasted Beijing Roast Duck is highly satisfied with this dish. The crispy duck skin contrasts perfectly with the tender and sweet meat inside, reminiscent of boiled meat. It doesn't feel greasy, and the meat is chewy but not tough, making it very palatable. It also has a delightful aroma when served with dipping sauce. Beijing Roast Duck is incomplete without dipping sauce, and there are two types: traditional sauce made with fermented soybeans (or tofu) and garlic, and sesame oil mixed with crushed garlic. Both types of dipping sauce are delicious, and the choice depends on each person's taste preference.
In addition to the classic dish of duck wrapped in pancakes, there are variations of Beijing Roast Duck such as grilled duck or duck skin served with goose liver. Each variation surprises the taste buds of diners, although the traditional flavor of Beijing Roast Duck remains irreplaceable. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Beijing, China, you should definitely try these special duck dishes.